Rs.39 Cr Worth Hydroponic Ganja Seized at IGI Airport, Two Thai Nationals Arrested
This significant bust highlights the persistent threat of drug smuggling via international routes and the vigilance of Customs officials at one of India’s busiest airports
In a major crackdown at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Customs officials have seized 36.89 kg of green-coloured narcotic substance suspected to be hydroponic Ganja or Marijuana. The seizure, made on the basis of spot profiling, has led to the arrest of two Thai women who arrived in India on March 29, 2025, via Thai Airways flight TG-323 from Bangkok. The two passengers...
In a major crackdown at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Customs officials have seized 36.89 kg of green-coloured narcotic substance suspected to be hydroponic Ganja or Marijuana. The seizure, made on the basis of spot profiling, has led to the arrest of two Thai women who arrived in India on March 29, 2025, via Thai Airways flight TG-323 from Bangkok.
The two passengers were intercepted at Terminal 3’s Green Channel by alert Customs officers. During detailed personal and baggage screening, officers discovered 42 polythene pouches concealed in one grey and one olive-green trolley bag. The pouches were found to contain a green leafy substance, which upon diagnostic testing, appeared to be Ganja/Marijuana.
The total net weight of the recovered narcotic substance was a staggering 36,893 grams (36.89 kg), with an estimated market value of Rs.39 crores. This high-grade variant, often referred to as hydroponic weed, is typically cultivated in controlled environments and fetches premium prices in the illegal drug trade.
Worried About SME IPO Pitfalls? Gain Clarity with This Advanced Course! Register Now
Following the recovery, the Customs department booked a case under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, specifically under Section 8 (prohibition on certain operations), Section 20 (punishment for cannabis-related offences), Section 23 (illegal import/export), and Section 29 (conspiracy and abetment). The duo was formally arrested on March 30, 2025, at around 5:20 PM, under Section 43(B) of the NDPS Act.
The packaging material and bags used for concealment have also been seized under Section 43(A) of the NDPS Act. Authorities have confirmed that further investigation is currently underway to identify the broader network involved in this smuggling operation, including possible local contacts and international syndicates.
This significant bust highlights the persistent threat of drug smuggling via international routes and the vigilance of Customs officials at one of India’s busiest airports.
Support our journalism by subscribing to Taxscan premium. Follow us on Telegram for quick updates
