Delhi Airport Customs Seize 11.5 Kg Hydroponic Weed, Two Passengers Held

Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi have busted an alleged cross-border drug smuggling network after recovering approximately 11.5 kg of hydroponic weed (ganja) from baggage linked to two Indian-origin passengers, officials said on Monday.

The seizure was made on August 16 following intelligence developed by the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU), according to an official statement.

Customs officers intercepted a female passenger of Indian origin from Punjab after she arrived at Delhi airport from Don Mueang in Bangkok, Thailand. The passenger had crossed the green channel and was not carrying any baggage. However, screening subsequently identified an unclaimed piece of baggage suspected to be linked to her.

Officials said an Indian-origin male passenger from Gujarat, who had arrived separately from Kathmandu, Nepal, was later identified while collecting the same baggage. He was intercepted after crossing the green channel.

The baggage was subjected to X-ray screening, which revealed suspicious images. A detailed search led to the recovery of approximately 11.525 kg of hydroponic weed, the Customs department said.

According to officials, both passengers admitted their involvement in the alleged smuggling attempt and were subsequently apprehended.

A case has been registered against the two passengers under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Further investigation is underway to determine the source of the contraband, its intended destination and whether the passengers were part of a wider trafficking network.

The seizure highlights the continued use of international passenger routes and baggage movements in attempts to transport narcotics into India.

Hydroponic weed is a form of cannabis cultivated in a nutrient-rich water-based environment instead of soil. It can be produced under controlled conditions and is often associated with higher concentrations of cannabinoids than some traditionally cultivated cannabis varieties.