Major Drug Bust at Calicut Airport: DRI Recovers Crystal Meth Worth Crores
In a significant enforcement action, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully intercepted and seized a large consignment of crystal methamphetamine at Calicut International Airport. The operation, conducted on Monday, led to the recovery of the narcotic substance from a passenger who had arrived from Muscat.
Intelligence-Led Operation Nets Palakkad Native
Acting on specific and actionable intelligence, officers from the Calicut regional unit of the DRI, operating under the Cochin Zonal Unit, swiftly moved to intercept the passenger. The individual, identified as a native of Palakkad, was found to be in possession of two packets containing crystal methamphetamine.
The total weight of the seized narcotics was 1,931 grams. According to official estimates, the value of this haul in the illicit international market is approximately Rs 3.86 crore.
Ingenious Concealment Method Uncovered
The DRI investigation revealed that the crystal meth was cleverly concealed inside food packets, which were then placed within the passenger's checked-in baggage. This method of concealment was designed to evade standard security checks and detection protocols at the airport.
Following the seizure, the passenger was immediately placed under arrest. The arrest was made under the stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Ongoing Investigation to Unravel Smuggling Network
An official statement from the DRI confirmed that further investigation is currently in progress. The primary objectives of this investigation are to:
- Ascertain the precise source of the narcotics.
- Identify other individuals who may be involved in the smuggling operation.
- Uncover and dismantle the broader networks facilitating such illicit activities.
DRI's Sustained Crackdown on Narcotics in Kerala
This seizure is part of a larger, sustained enforcement campaign by the DRI's Cochin Zonal Unit. In the current financial year alone, the unit has made significant strides in combating drug trafficking in the region.
The total value of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances seized so far this year in Kerala stands at an impressive Rs 70.76 crore. The seized substances include a variety of drugs such as hydroponic weed, methamphetamine, and cocaine.
In connection with these various seizures, a total of 21 individuals have been arrested, highlighting the scale and intensity of the DRI's operations.
Commitment to a 'Nasha Mukt Bharat'
The DRI's statement emphasized that these ongoing and rigorous enforcement efforts are a direct reflection of the agency's unwavering commitment to the government's vision of a 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' or Drug-Free India. By intercepting high-value consignments and arresting key players, the DRI aims to disrupt the supply chains and deter future attempts at narcotics smuggling through Indian airports and borders.
The successful operation at Calicut International Airport serves as a stern warning to smuggling syndicates and reinforces the effectiveness of intelligence-based policing in the fight against the illegal drug trade.
