Chennai, Aug 25:
Chennai Customs and Central Narcotics officials seized 14.437 kg of high-grade hydroponic cannabis, valued at around Rs 14.4 crore, from a woman passenger who arrived from Bangkok at Chennai International Airport. The woman was arrested and is being questioned over her alleged links to an international drug-smuggling network.
Officials had received intelligence about a possible attempt to smuggle a large quantity of narcotics into the country through Chennai airport. Following the tip-off, Central Narcotics officials and the Chennai Customs Intelligence wing intensified surveillance on passengers arriving from abroad.
During the operation, officials intercepted a woman who had arrived from Bangkok, Thailand, after a trip to the country. Her baggage was subjected to scanning, during which suspicious images were detected.
When questioned, the woman reportedly gave contradictory answers, prompting Customs and narcotics officials to conduct a detailed examination of her suitcase.
Officials found six packets labelled as Thai food products inside the luggage. On opening the packets, they allegedly discovered processed high-grade hydroponic cannabis concealed within them.
A total of 14.437 kg of the narcotic substance was seized. Officials estimated its value at approximately Rs 14.4 crore.
The woman was arrested and further investigation is under way to determine whether she was acting as a courier for an international drug-smuggling syndicate, who was meant to receive the consignment, and the identities of those who allegedly sent her to Thailand to bring the drugs into India.