DRI Busts International Drug Racket at Jaipur Airport, Seizes Rs 6.5 Crore Hydroponic Weed
In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Thursday busted an international drug smuggling racket and seized a substantial consignment of hydroponic weed at the Jaipur International Airport. The operation led to the arrest of a passenger for illegal possession of 17.6 kilograms of hydroponic ganja, valued at approximately Rs 6.5 crore in the international market.
Arrest and Seizure Details
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, DRI officials intercepted the passenger upon his arrival from Abu Dhabi. The individual, identified as Syed Abdul Gaffar, a resident of Hyderabad, had traveled on Etihad Airways flight EY328 in the morning hours. During a thorough examination of his baggage, officers discovered the hydroponic weed cleverly concealed inside a trolley bag.
According to DRI sources, the seized contraband is estimated to be worth nearly Rs 6.5 crore, highlighting the high value and potency of hydroponic cannabis compared to traditional varieties. Preliminary investigations suggest that Gaffar is suspected to be a key courier associated with an organised international drug smuggling syndicate, operating across multiple countries.
Smuggling Route and Legal Action
Officials believe that the consignment was trafficked from Bangkok, transported to Abu Dhabi, and then routed to Jaipur using air travel corridors. This modus operandi indicates the sophisticated and transnational nature of the smuggling network. Following the interception, Gaffar was arrested under various provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
An officer stated, "He was produced before the court and subsequently sent to jail," underscoring the swift legal action taken in the case. The arrest and seizure mark a significant achievement in the DRI's ongoing efforts to combat international drug syndicates that exploit Indian airports for illicit activities.
Ongoing Investigation and Broader Implications
Senior DRI officials have hailed this operation as a crucial success in their crackdown on narcotics trafficking. Investigators are now delving deeper into the racket's backward and forward linkages to identify all involved parties, including handlers, financiers, and end-receivers both within India and abroad.
The probe aims to unravel the entire supply chain and dismantle the syndicate's operations comprehensively. This incident underscores the persistent challenges posed by drug smuggling networks and the vigilant efforts required by enforcement agencies to safeguard borders and public health.
