Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 4: A seemingly glamorous offer of a “free trip to Thailand” turned into a high-stakes narcotics bust at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, as three Indian women were arrested for allegedly smuggling hydroponic marijuana worth Rs 8.5 crore into the country.

The trio — identified as Priyanka Kumar (44) from Delhi, Ishika Kaltari (19) from Bhopa, Madhya Pradesh, and Asma Bano Rajab, a woman in her early 40s from Gujarat — had reportedly concealed the high-grade cannabis in their luggage. Acting on a tip-off, Customs officers laid a trap and intercepted them shortly after they landed from Bangkok on flights SL218 and VZ760.

Upon detailed examination and interrogation, officers seized 3.24 kg of hydroponic weed from Priyanka, 3.52 kg from Ishika, and 1.86 kg from Asma. The total seizure is estimated at Rs 8.5 crore, officials confirmed.

Hydroponic weed, grown using advanced water-based farming techniques, is known for its intense potency and high market value, making it a preferred contraband for international smugglers.

Sources revealed that Priyanka and Ishika admitted they agreed to carry the narcotics for the lure of a free foreign holiday. Asma, who was once employed at a beauty salon but had quit due to health reasons, was promised a Rs 15,000 commission to deliver the consignment to a contact in Surat.

Investigators suspect a Brazilian drug network to be orchestrating the operation. One of the women was found with the contact of a Brazilian woman believed to be the supplier. Authorities are now probing the possibility of a wider smuggling ring using unsuspecting Indian citizens as couriers.

All three women are currently in custody and being interrogated as officials dig deeper into the international trail of this high-profile drug bust.