In a major crackdown on international drug trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 4.7 kg of cocaine, valued at around ₹47 crore in the illicit market, from a female passenger arriving from Colombo at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai.
Discovery and Arrests
Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials intercepted the passenger shortly after arrival and conducted a thorough examination of her baggage. They discovered nine pouches containing white powder concealed cleverly inside coffee packets. Preliminary testing using the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) field kit confirmed the substance to be cocaine.
Following this, a coordinated operation led to the arrest of four additional syndicate members — one who came to the airport to receive the shipment and three others involved in financing, logistics, and distribution. All five individuals have been apprehended under the NDPS Act, 1985.
Emerging Trends and Investigation
Recent DRI seizures indicate a disturbing trend where international drug networks increasingly exploit Indian women as couriers while hiding narcotics within food and everyday items to evade detection. A detailed investigation is underway to dismantle the larger transnational syndicate orchestrating this smuggling attempt.
The DRI remains committed to the vision of “Nasha Mukt Bharat”, aiming to disrupt narcotics supply chains to protect India’s youth, economy, and national security.
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Source: PIB
