In a significant drug bust, officials at the Mumbai airport apprehended two young men from Gujarat for allegedly attempting to smuggle high-value hydroponic cannabis into the country from Thailand. The seizure, valued at a staggering Rs 42.20 lakh in the illicit market, underscores the ongoing vigilance of customs authorities against narcotics trafficking.
The Intelligence-Led Interception
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Mumbai Customs kept a close watch on a flight arriving from Bangkok on Sunday. Their focus was on two passengers, identified as Aman Pareshbhai Thumar (20) and Darshit Ratilal Ginoya (19). Upon their arrival at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (CSM) International Airport, the duo was immediately intercepted by the waiting officials.
An initial personal search of both individuals yielded no contraband. However, the officers' suspicions remained high. They then turned their attention to the checked-in baggage. A crucial discrepancy was noted: a black trolley bag being carried by Darshit Ginoya was actually booked under the name of Aman Thumar.
The Concealed Contraband Uncovered
Upon a thorough examination of the suspicious bag, customs officers made the discovery. Concealed cleverly among packets of chocolates were 10 plastic packets containing a green leafy substance. The officers promptly used a field testing kit on the material, which confirmed their fears—the substance tested positive for hydroponic weed, a potent variety of cannabis.
The total net weight of the seized narcotic was precisely 422 grams. Officials confirmed that the cannabis was being smuggled into India in clear violation of the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The estimated street value of the seizure was pegged at Rs 42.20 lakh, highlighting the premium value of hydroponically grown cannabis in the black market.
Legal Repercussions and Ongoing Vigilance
Following the seizure, both Aman Thumar and Darshit Ginoya were formally arrested and booked under the relevant sections of the NDPS Act. The case highlights the sophisticated methods employed by smugglers, who often use misdeclared baggage and conceal items within innocent-looking goods to evade detection.
This successful operation by the Mumbai Customs' AIU demonstrates the critical role of actionable intelligence and persistent surveillance in curbing the flow of illegal drugs through international airports. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining strict vigilance on all inbound flights, especially from routes known to be sources of narcotics.
