In a dramatic crackdown on drug trafficking, Customs officials at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport seized a staggering 14.548 kg of hydroponic weed, valued at Rs 14.5 crore in the illicit market, from a passenger arriving from Bangkok. The high-value bust, executed by the Airport Commissionerate of Mumbai Customs in the early hours of Wednesday, marks a significant blow to international drug smuggling networks.

Acting on precise intelligence and spot profiling, Customs sleuths intercepted the suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, shortly after their arrival from Bangkok. A thorough search of the passenger’s trolley bag revealed the carefully concealed stash of hydroponic marijuana, a potent and high-demand strain. The sheer quantity and value of the drugs underscore the growing challenge of combating sophisticated smuggling operations at India’s busiest airport.

The passenger was promptly arrested under the stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, with authorities launching a detailed investigation to uncover potential links to larger drug trafficking syndicates. “This seizure reflects our unwavering commitment to curbing the flow of illegal narcotics,” a senior Customs official stated, emphasizing the department’s proactive measures to safeguard the nation.

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The incident has raised alarm bells about the rising influx of high-potency drugs through international routes, with Mumbai emerging as a key transit hub. Authorities are now intensifying surveillance and coordination with global agencies to dismantle such networks. The arrested individual faces severe penalties under the NDPS Act, as the investigation continues to unravel the full extent of this audacious smuggling attempt.

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