Bengaluru: Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) have seized 10.2 kg of hydroponic ganja valued at approximately Rs 3.57 crore from a passenger who arrived from Bangkok. The contraband was allegedly concealed in the passenger’s checked-in baggage and was detected during a routine customs inspection.
The seizure was made on June 5 as part of ongoing efforts by customs authorities to curb the smuggling of narcotic substances through international airports.
Contraband found in checked-in baggage
According to customs officials, the passenger arrived in Bengaluru from Bangkok on an IndiGo flight (6E 1056). During inspection of the baggage, officers discovered hydroponic ganja concealed inside the checked-in luggage.
The narcotic substance weighed a total of 10.2 kg and has an estimated market value of Rs 3.57 crore.
Officials said the seizure was made following a detailed examination of the baggage, leading to the detection of the concealed contraband.
Passenger arrested under NDPS Act
Following the seizure, customs authorities arrested the passenger, identified as Akshay Pavithran (32).
A case has been registered under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The accused has been taken into custody for further investigation.
Officials stated that the arrest was made in accordance with legal procedures governing narcotics-related offences.
Probe focuses on trafficking network
Customs authorities have launched an investigation to determine the origin of the seized narcotics and uncover possible links to larger drug trafficking networks.
Investigators are examining the travel history of the accused, the source of the contraband and any potential associates involved in the smuggling operation.
Officials believe the probe could help identify broader supply chains and distribution networks connected to international drug trafficking activities.
Continued crackdown on drug smuggling
The latest seizure comes amid intensified efforts by customs and law enforcement agencies to prevent the smuggling of narcotic substances through airports across the country.
Authorities have been conducting regular surveillance, passenger profiling and baggage screening to detect illegal drugs being transported through international routes.
Hydroponic ganja, which is cultivated using specialised growing techniques, often commands a significantly higher value in the illegal drug market compared to conventional cannabis.
Officials reiterated that strict action would continue against individuals involved in the smuggling, transportation and distribution of narcotic substances.
Conclusion
The seizure of 10.2 kg of hydroponic ganja worth Rs 3.57 crore at Bengaluru airport highlights ongoing attempts by traffickers to use international travel routes for drug smuggling. With the accused arrested and investigations underway, customs authorities are focusing on tracing the source of the contraband and identifying any wider trafficking network linked to the case.