Lucknow: Two alleged drug couriers from Indore, posing as a couple, were arrested at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi on Friday evening after authorities recovered nearly 20 kg of hydroponic weed from their luggage, officials said.
Accused Identified
The accused were identified as Shehanaj Hussain, 37, of Bank Chandan Nagar in Indore, and Yusoof, 40, of Marothiya Bazar, Sarafa Saifi Mohalla in Indore. They had arrived from Bangkok on Air India Express flight IX 215.
Suspicion During Immigration
Officials said suspicion arose during immigration checks after officers examined their travel history and questioned them about their relationship. Investigators found that Yusoof had flown to Bangkok on May 21, while Shehanaj had travelled separately a day earlier via Mumbai and Delhi.
During initial questioning, the two allegedly claimed they were engaged, but officials said their answers were inconsistent. This prompted a more detailed interrogation, during which they allegedly admitted that two bags had been handed to them in Bangkok by another individual for transport to India in exchange for payment.
Seizure and Arrest
The passengers were then handed over to the Air Intelligence Unit of Customs and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence for further examination. On opening the bags, officers found hydroponic weed packed in 22 packets. Officials said 20 packets weighed about 550 grams each, while two larger packets weighed around 5.5 kg each, taking the total seizure to about 19.8 kg, including packaging.
The DRI estimated the value of the seized contraband at Rs 6.93 crore. Both were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
About the Author
Arvind Chauhan: When he's not chasing stories, you’ll likely find him exploring food lanes, indulging in mutton delicacies and sundaes. He is a journalist with a can-do spirit and a flair for compelling storytelling. From railways and aviation to defence, infrastructure, social development and various other diverse beats, his reportage reflects depth. His work has earned him the Times Scribe Award four times.
