Customs officers of the Air Intelligence Unit–C (AIU-C) at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi, intercepted a male passenger arriving from Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines Flight No. ET 688 after he crossed the Customs Green Channel, acting on specific intelligence.
According to the Customs authorities, the interception was carried out during the night duty of August 8/9, 2026. The passenger’s baggage was subjected to X-ray screening as part of the intelligence-based examination. During screening, the officers noticed suspicious images inside the baggage, prompting a detailed examination and search.
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Cocaine Found Concealed in Daily-Use Items and Briefcase
The subsequent search of the passenger’s baggage led to the recovery of approximately 788.5 grams of cocaine. The suspected contraband was allegedly concealed in several daily-use items carried by the passenger, as well as within the handle rods of a briefcase.
The concealment method allegedly involved placing the substance in ordinary articles and structural portions of the baggage, apparently to avoid detection during routine travel and screening.
The recovery was made following the suspicious X-ray images, which prompted Customs officers to conduct a more comprehensive physical examination of the baggage.
Contraband Seized Under Customs Law
Following the recovery, the approximately 788.5 grams of cocaine was seized by Customs authorities in accordance with the applicable legal provisions. The seizure forms part of the continuing investigation into the suspected illicit transportation of the narcotic substance.
The case highlights the role of intelligence-led profiling and X-ray screening at international airports in detecting concealed narcotics. The incident also demonstrates how Customs officers may subject baggage to detailed examination where screening reveals suspicious or unexplained images.
Investigation Underway
Customs authorities have stated that further investigation is in progress. The investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the passenger’s possession and transportation of the cocaine, the manner in which the substance was concealed, and any possible links with a wider narcotics trafficking network.
The authorities will also examine the passenger’s travel details and other relevant evidence gathered during the interception and search.
Intelligence-Based Surveillance at IGI Airport
The seizure is another instance of Customs authorities relying on specific intelligence, passenger interception and baggage screening to detect prohibited substances being transported through an international airport.
The use of X-ray screening proved significant in the present case, as the suspicious images detected during the initial examination resulted in a detailed search and the eventual recovery of the alleged cocaine.
The case remains under investigation, and further action will depend on the findings of the Customs authorities and the applicable legal proceedings.
