Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 5: In a major crackdown against drug trafficking and smuggling activities, the Mumbai Customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport have seized hydroponic marijuana worth over Rs 25 crore, along with gold and foreign currency valued at around Rs 92 lakh, an official said on Thursday.

The seizures were made by the Airport Commissionerate between November 25 and December 3 during multiple inspections. According to officials, a total of 25.4 kg of high-grade hydroponic weed was recovered in eight separate cases from passengers who arrived from Bangkok. The confiscated substance, popular in illicit drug markets, carries a street value of Rs 25.47 crore.

The arrested accused have been booked under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Meanwhile, customs officials also detected three cases of gold smuggling, recovering 744.28 grams of gold worth Rs 81.67 lakh from three different passengers attempting to sneak the metal into the country.

In another case, a passenger was intercepted while carrying undeclared foreign currency amounting to 12,000 US dollars—equivalent to Rs 10.53 lakh.

Authorities emphasized that surveillance has been strengthened to curb the rising instances of smuggling and drug trafficking through international routes.