Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 2: In a major strike against international drug trafficking networks, the Mumbai Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 42.34 kg of hydroponic weed valued at nearly Rs 42 crore from two passengers who arrived from Bangkok at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, officials said on Sunday.

The action followed a tip-off received by DRI officers, who intercepted the two individuals shortly after they landed. A detailed baggage inspection revealed 21 food packets—containing noodles, biscuits, and other snacks—stuffed with the high-grade narcotic.

Testing with a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) field kit confirmed the substance as hydroponic weed, a premium strain of cannabis cultivated using soil-less techniques and advanced hydroponic systems.

The narcotics were seized under the NDPS Act, 1985, and both passengers were arrested. Officials said the bust represents a crucial breakthrough in dismantling a transnational network that has been attempting to push high-value drugs into India through air routes.

This interception comes just two days after DRI Mumbai seized 4.7 kg of cocaine worth Rs 47 crore, leading to the arrest of five individuals involved in financing, handling, and distributing the contraband.

With these back-to-back operations, DRI Mumbai has confiscated narcotics worth over Rs 90 crore within three days, reinforcing its aggressive campaign against the smuggling of synthetic and high-value drugs.

Investigations are now focused on uncovering the international and domestic links of the syndicate responsible for orchestrating the operation.

A DRI spokesperson reiterated the agency’s commitment to building a “Nasha Mukt Bharat” (Drug-Free India) by intensifying efforts to intercept narcotics, dismantle trafficking networks, and protect the nation’s security and public health.