Delhi Customs Seize 17.7 Kg Hydroponic Weed at IGI Airport, Probe Smuggling Link

Customs officials at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport have uncovered an alleged drug smuggling attempt and seized 17.720 kg of suspected hydroponic weed from the baggage linked to two international passengers, authorities said on Monday.

Officials said the seized narcotics are estimated to be worth around ₹18 crore in the illegal market , considering the high street value of hydroponic cannabis.

The operation was carried out on May 12 after customs officers began monitoring a passenger who had arrived from Bangkok . During the surveillance, another passenger landing from Sharjah also drew attention while exiting through the green channel with a bag that reportedly had no baggage tag attached.

During routine X-ray screening, officers noticed unusual images inside the luggage, leading to a detailed inspection. Authorities later recovered baggage tags from the Sharjah passenger during questioning and personal search. Investigators said the passenger admitted he had been asked to collect a suitcase booked under the Bangkok traveller’s name.

A thorough examination of the bag resulted in the recovery of 17.720 kg of hydroponic weed , hidden inside along with packing materials.

The narcotics were confiscated under the provisions of the NDPS Act , and officials have launched a wider investigation to trace others who may be connected to the suspected smuggling network.

The seizure comes amid a rise in narcotics interceptions at IGI Airport this year. Customs authorities have reportedly confiscated over 140 kg of hydroponic weed and marijuana in 2026 so far , including several high-value hauls involving international passengers arriving from Southeast Asian countries.