By Mewati Sitaram
In a major drug bust, the Customs officers at the Airport Commissionerate, Mumbai Customs Zone-III, intercepted a passenger at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMI), recovering 12.26 kg of hydroponic weed (marijuana) valued at approximately ₹12.26 crore in the illicit market.
Acting on specific intelligence, officers intercepted the passenger who had arrived from Kuala Lumpur on flight MH194 on September 3, 2025. A thorough examination of the baggage led to the discovery of the narcotic substance, which had been cleverly concealed inside a checked-in trolley bag.
The passenger was immediately placed under arrest under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
According to officials, hydroponic weed is a high-grade variant of marijuana cultivated using advanced techniques, making it significantly more potent and sought-after in illegal markets. The seizure underscores the vigilance of Mumbai Customs in curbing narcotics trafficking through one of the country’s busiest airports.
Investigations are underway to identify the wider network involved in this smuggling attempt. Authorities added that the case highlights the growing trend of international drug syndicates attempting to use Mumbai as a transit point.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
