In a major drug bust at Pune airport, the air intelligence unit of the city's customs department apprehended two individuals and seized approximately 3.5 kilograms of hydroponic weed on Thursday. The contraband, totaling 3,348 grams, is estimated to be worth a staggering Rs 1.17 crore in the illicit market, according to customs officials.
Details of the Seizure
The two passengers had arrived from Bangkok on Air India Express flight IX-241. Officials identified the suspects as residents of Kerala. During the inspection of their check-in baggage, customs officers discovered six transparent vacuum-sealed packets of marijuana wrapped in black paper. One passenger was the carrier, while the other acted as an escort to ensure safe passage, a senior customs official stated.
Legal Action
The contraband was confiscated, and both individuals were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Investigations are ongoing, the official added.
Recent Trend of Drug Seizures
This incident is part of a growing pattern of hydroponic weed seizures at Pune airport. In late March, customs authorities had intercepted 76.6 kilograms of the same substance, valued at approximately Rs 26.8 crore, from a cargo consignment arriving from Thailand.
