3 Sri Lankan Nationals Held At IGI Airport With Rs 11.6 Crore Marijuana Haul

Customs officials at the Indira Gandhi International Airport have uncovered an alleged drug smuggling attempt , seizing marijuana valued at Rs 11.63 crore from three Sri Lankan nationals, authorities said on Tuesday.

The passengers had arrived from Pudong, China, on April 29 and were intercepted at the Green Channel based on profiling inputs . They were subsequently subjected to X-ray screening and detailed baggage checks, which led to the recovery of contraband concealed in trolley bags.

Officials said 12 polythene packets containing a green-coloured substance suspected to be ganja (marijuana) were seized, with a total net weight of 11,635 grams . Field testing confirmed the presence of the narcotic substance, the statement added.

The accused were found in violation of provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 and were arrested on April 30. Given the quantity involved, the case falls under commercial quantity , attracting stringent penalties including long-term imprisonment and heavy fines. Authorities also seized the contraband along with the packing material.

Officials noted that such cases highlight how international routes are often exploited by smuggling networks. Traffickers frequently use busy global hubs and multi-leg journeys to mask the origin of consignments, while high passenger volumes help conceal illegal cargo within routine travel. The use of couriers or “mules” and advanced concealment techniques further complicate detection.

They added that intelligence-based profiling and surveillance remain key tools in countering cross-border drug trafficking , particularly at major transit points like IGI Airport. Further investigation is underway to identify the broader network behind the smuggling attempt.