In a major anti-drug operation, DRI Mumbai seized 42.34 kg of hydroponic weed worth Rs 42 crore from two Bangkok passengers at Mumbai Airport, marking another success in India’s war against international narcotics trafficking networks.
In a decisive blow to international narcotics trafficking, the Mumbai Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 42.34 kilograms of hydroponic weed, valued at approximately Rs 42 crore, from two passengers arriving from Bangkok at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Sunday. Officials confirmed that both individuals were arrested following the recovery of the high-grade contraband.
Intelligence-Based Operation Leads to Massive Seizure
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, DRI officers intercepted the two passengers immediately after they disembarked at the airport. Their baggage underwent a detailed examination, during which 21 food packets containing everyday items such as noodles and biscuits were discovered. Upon closer inspection, these packets were found to be cleverly stuffed with hydroponic weed, a premium-grade variant of cannabis.
A preliminary test using the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) field detection kit confirmed that the material was indeed hydroponic cannabis. The contraband was subsequently seized under the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985, and both passengers were taken into custody for further questioning.
Hydroponic Weed: High-Value, High-Risk
Hydroponic weed, cultivated through advanced soil-less farming techniques, is known for its high potency and purity. The strain is typically grown under controlled conditions, allowing traffickers to produce cannabis with enhanced psychoactive properties. Due to its quality, hydroponic weed commands an exceptionally high market value, particularly in metropolitan cities and among organized narcotics networks.
Officials indicated that the arrested duo may be part of a larger smuggling network operating across Southeast Asia and India. “This seizure highlights the evolving sophistication of drug trafficking methods,” said a DRI spokesperson. “The agency remains committed to dismantling these syndicates and preventing the infiltration of such high-value drugs into Indian markets.”
Back-to-Back Seizures Strengthen DRI’s Anti-Narcotics Drive
The latest seizure comes just two days after another major bust by the same DRI unit, where officers confiscated 4.7 kilograms of cocaine worth Rs 47 crore. That operation led to the arrest of five individuals, including carriers, financers, handlers, and distributors, revealing a deep-rooted network that spanned multiple states and international routes.
With the latest operation, the DRI Mumbai unit has intercepted narcotics worth over Rs 90 crore within just three days, underscoring the agency’s aggressive pursuit of drug traffickers. Officials said these successive operations reflect the agency’s growing efficiency in tracking and intercepting international narcotics flows through Indian airports.
Expanding Investigations and International Links
The DRI has initiated a comprehensive investigation to trace the origins of the contraband and the identities of those orchestrating the smuggling from abroad. Intelligence sources suggest potential links to organized networks operating from Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, using unsuspecting couriers to transport contraband through commercial passenger flights.
DRI officers are now coordinating with customs, airport security, and international enforcement agencies to unearth the full extent of the trafficking chain and identify financiers and receivers within India.
Building a Drug-Free India
Reaffirming its commitment, the DRI emphasized that these operations are part of its broader mission to create a “Nasha Mukt Bharat” (Drug-Free India). The agency continues to focus on intercepting narcotics shipments, dismantling international trafficking syndicates, and safeguarding the health and security of citizens.
“The fight against narcotics is not only about enforcement but about protecting our youth and communities from the devastating impact of addiction,” a senior DRI officer stated. “Each seizure is a step closer to dismantling global drug networks that threaten national integrity and public health.”
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As investigations continue, this successful operation stands as yet another example of India’s growing vigilance and capability in curbing international drug smuggling, reinforcing DRI’s role as the frontline defense in the country’s ongoing war against narcotics.
