In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, customs officials at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) have intercepted a massive consignment of high-grade narcotics this week. The operations led to the seizure of more than 25 kilograms of hydroponic cannabis and the arrest of nine passengers arriving from Bangkok.
Major Drug Busts Through Profiling and Intelligence
The seizures were executed using a combination of spot profiling and Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS)-based targeting, showcasing the department's sophisticated monitoring techniques. Officials revealed that the confiscated narcotics were of a premium, hydroponically grown variety, indicating a high-value smuggling attempt.
In the first major operation, customs officers recovered 8.682 kg of suspected hydroponic weed, valued at an astounding Rs 8.68 crore in the illicit market. This contraband was found in the possession of four individuals who had arrived in Mumbai on separate flights originating from Bangkok.
Second Operation Nets Even Larger Haul
Acting swiftly on specific intelligence, the officials launched a second operation. This led to the interception of five more passengers who had also flown in from Bangkok. From them, the team confiscated a staggering 16.797 kg of hydroponic cannabis, with an estimated street value of Rs 16.79 crore.
All nine passengers involved in these two drug smuggling cases were promptly arrested under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The twin busts underscore the airport's role as a frontline in India's battle against international drug cartels.
Additional Smuggling Cases Uncovered
In separate enforcement actions during the same period, the Mumbai Air Customs registered three distinct cases of gold smuggling. Officials successfully recovered 744.28 grams of gold, worth approximately Rs 81.67 lakh, from three different passengers.
In yet another case, the vigilance of the customs team prevented the illegal outflow of foreign currency. They seized US $12,000, equivalent to about Rs 10.53 lakh, from a passenger who was attempting to carry the funds out of the country in violation of foreign exchange regulations.
These series of successful interceptions highlight the multi-pronged approach of the Mumbai customs authority. They are not only focusing on narcotics but also actively curbing the smuggling of precious metals and the unauthorized movement of currency, protecting the nation's economic security.
