Chennai, Aug 26:
Customs officials at Chennai International Airport have seized more than 6 kg of high-grade hydroponic cannabis, valued at around Rs 6 crore, from two women passengers who allegedly smuggled the contraband from Thailand. Both women have been arrested and are being questioned over their suspected links to an international drug trafficking network.
Customs intelligence officials had received information about the possible smuggling of a large quantity of narcotic substances into Chennai from abroad. Following the alert, officers of the Chennai Airport Customs Intelligence Unit stepped up surveillance and closely monitored passengers arriving on international flights.
A flight from Bangkok, Thailand, arrived at Chennai International Airport, following which Customs officials identified and intercepted two women passengers who had returned after travelling to Thailand as tourists.
During the screening of their baggage, officials noticed suspicious images in the scanning equipment. The women allegedly attempted to leave the Customs area without stopping for further examination.
Customs officers immediately intercepted them and began questioning. Officials said the women gave contradictory replies, raising further suspicion.
Their suitcases were subsequently opened and searched in detail. Officers found eight packets purportedly containing food products. On opening and examining the packets, Customs officials allegedly discovered processed high-grade hydroponic cannabis concealed inside them.
A total of 6 kg and 89 grams of hydroponic cannabis was seized. Officials estimated the value of the narcotic substance at approximately Rs 6 crore.
The contraband was seized and the two women were arrested under relevant provisions of the narcotic laws. Further investigation is underway.
Customs officials are now probing whether the women were acting as couriers for an international drug-smuggling syndicate. Investigators are also trying to identify the intended recipients of the narcotics in India and trace the network that allegedly arranged their travel to Thailand and the transportation of the contraband.
The investigation is expected to focus on identifying other members of the suspected international trafficking network and determining whether similar consignments had previously been brought into the country through Chennai airport.