In a major crackdown on narcotics smuggling, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Customs at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi, has seized 5.6 kilograms of ganja/marijuana valued at approximately ₹5.6 crore.
The contraband was found concealed in five silver-coloured polythene pouches hidden inside two trolley bags carried by two Indian passengers arriving from Bangkok.
According to officials, the incident took place on September 12, 2025, when the passengers, traveling by flight AI-2335, landed at Terminal-3, IGI Airport. Based on suspicion, customs officers diverted the duo from the green channel for baggage examination. A detailed X-ray and physical search of their dark grey and green trolley bags led to the discovery of the narcotics.
On testing, the seized green-coloured substance was confirmed to be ganja/marijuana, weighing 5,687.5 grams (net weight). Officials pegged the market value of the seized consignment at ₹5.6 crore.
Customs stated that the passengers had violated Section 8 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, committing offences punishable under Sections 20, 23, and 29 of the Act. The accused were placed under arrest at around 11:00 a.m. on September 13, 2025, under Section 43(b) of the NDPS Act. The narcotics, along with concealing materials and packaging, were seized under Section 43(a) of the Act.
Authorities confirmed that further investigation is underway to identify possible international links, handlers, and the smuggling network behind the consignment.
This seizure highlights the increasing attempts of traffickers to use international routes for smuggling narcotics into India and the vigilance of customs officials in thwarting such operations.
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