New Delhi, Oct 28: In a major breakthrough against international drug trafficking, the Customs Department at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport seized nearly 5 kilograms of marijuana, valued at around ₹4.94 crore in the illicit market. Six individuals, including two passengers arriving from Bangkok, have been arrested in connection with the smuggling attempt.
The operation unfolded on October 24, when Customs officials at Terminal 3 stopped two Indian passengers from flight SG-88 based on suspicion. Upon inspecting their baggage, officers discovered eight yellow polythene packets concealed inside hollowed out jackfruits. The packets contained a green, plant-like substance later confirmed through diagnostic tests to be marijuana.
The total contraband weighed precisely 4,941.5 grams. Following the initial arrests, investigators widened the probe and detained four others allegedly linked to the smuggling network. These individuals were reportedly waiting outside the airport to receive the narcotics.
All six accused have been booked under multiple sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act Sections 8, 20, 23, and 29 covering illegal possession, trafficking, import, and conspiracy.
A senior Customs official said, “The seizure exposes a new modus operandi of concealing drugs in perishable goods like jackfruits to evade detection. Further investigations are underway to trace the source and international links of the syndicate.”
The bust marks one of the most unusual narcotics concealment attempts at Delhi Airport this year, underscoring the growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks and the vigilance of customs enforcement.