NOV 01: In a significant operation against international drug trafficking networks, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 4.7 kg of cocaine valued at approximately ₹47 crore from a female passenger arriving from Colombo at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai.
Based on specific intelligence, DRI officers intercepted the passenger upon arrival and subjected her baggage to a detailed examination. The search led to the recovery of nine pouches containing a white powdery substance, ingeniously concealed inside coffee packets. Preliminary testing using the NDPS field kit confirmed the substance to be cocaine.
In a swift follow-up operation, DRI teams arrested four more individuals linked to the smuggling syndicate — one who had arrived at the airport to receive the consignment and three others involved in financing, logistics, and distribution. All five accused have been arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Recent seizures indicate a disturbing trend where international drug cartels are increasingly using Indian women as couriers and concealing narcotics within food items and everyday commodities to evade detection.
The DRI has launched a comprehensive investigation to identify and dismantle the broader transnational network behind this smuggling attempt.
Reaffirming its commitment to a “Nasha Mukt Bharat,” the DRI stated that it will continue its relentless efforts to disrupt narcotics supply chains, protect India’s youth, economy, and national security, and dismantle organized drug syndicates operating across borders.
