DRI Seizes 12.7 kg of Hydroponic Cannabis at Lucknow Airport — Three Arrested in International Smuggling Attempt

NCB Drug Seizures NCB Drug Seizures

Posted by admin on 2025-12-01 06:43:56 |

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In a significant operation reflecting the evolving landscape of narcotics smuggling into India, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) along with airport customs and anti-smuggling teams seized 12.7 kilograms of high-grade hydroponic cannabis from passengers arriving at Lucknow’s international airport. The contraband — valued considerably higher than traditional cannabis due to its concentrated potency — was found vacuum-sealed and concealed in multiple layers of luggage, indicating careful and professional packing methods to evade detection.

The travelers, who had arrived from Thailand, were intercepted after intelligence indicated potential high-risk couriers on that sector — a route increasingly attracting attention from enforcement agencies. Upon inspection, officers discovered the tightly packed hydroponic cannabis, which is grown using soil-free, controlled-environment cultivation systems, resulting in stronger psychoactive impact and greater market value per gram.

Officials stated that the passengers appeared to be acting as drug couriers, potentially part of a larger syndicate attempting to establish a steady air-travel supply pipeline into India. The use of vacuum sealing and modular packing suggested training and logistical planning — pointing to well-organized networks rather than isolated individuals. The three accused have been arrested under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, and further interrogation is expected to reveal details regarding handlers, financers, and delivery points inside the country.

This seizure highlights emerging smuggling patterns, where narcotics are no longer entering solely through land borders or maritime channels but increasingly via commercial air travel, especially through tourists or frequent-flyer courier mules. The DRI has stated that heightened vigilance, profiling techniques, and real-time intelligence sharing are key components of their strategy as they anticipate increased trafficking attempts ahead of travel seasons and urban demand peaks.

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