The Customs officers of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi, seized 13.84 kilograms of Hydroponic Weed (Ganja) valued at approximately ₹4.83 crore from an Indian passenger arriving from Bangkok.
According to Customs authorities, the passenger arrived at Delhi airport on Flight AI 2335 from Bangkok on June 21, 2026. Acting on intelligence inputs and passenger profiling, officers intercepted the traveler after he crossed the Customs Green Channel.
During screening of the passenger’s baggage through the X-ray system, Customs officials noticed suspicious images indicating the possible concealment of contraband. A detailed physical examination of the baggage was subsequently carried out.
The examination led to the recovery of 13,840 grams (approximately 13.84 kg) of Hydroponic Weed (Ganja)concealed inside the baggage. The seized narcotic substance has an estimated illicit market value of around ₹4.83 crore.
Hydroponic weed is a highly potent form of cannabis cultivated using advanced hydroponic techniques rather than traditional soil-based methods. Due to its higher concentration of psychoactive substances, it commands significantly higher prices in illegal drug markets.
Following the recovery, Customs officers registered a case under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act). The passenger was arrested, and the contraband along with the packing materials used for concealment was seized.
Officials stated that further investigation is underway to ascertain the source of the narcotics, identify any international drug trafficking syndicates involved, and determine whether additional persons were connected to the smuggling attempt.
The seizure forms part of the intensified enforcement efforts being undertaken by Customs authorities at major international airports to curb cross-border narcotics trafficking. In recent months, enforcement agencies have reported several attempts to smuggle high-value narcotic substances into India through international passenger routes, particularly from Southeast Asian destinations.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover the complete network behind the attempted smuggling operation.
