In a major crackdown on narcotics smuggling, the Customs department at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport arrested four individuals and seized a total of hydroponic weed worth a staggering Rs20 crores in three separate cases.
In the first case, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) intercepted a couple, Mohammed Bilakhiyais (40) and his wife Afreen Bilakhiya, on specific intelligence that they were smuggling narcotics from Bangkok. Upon checking their baggage, authorities recovered 11,808 grams of a greenish substance that tested positive for hydroponic weed. The estimated value of the seized substance is Rs11.80 crores.
The second case involved Sangish Khan Kuppal, a passenger from Tamil Nadu, who arrived from Bangkok. During a routine baggage check, customs officials seized 907 grams of hydroponic weed (marijuana), valued at Rs90 lakhs.
In the third case, Mohammed Rafiq Shaikh (34) from Trombay was detained after arriving from Bangkok. His baggage was thoroughly checked, leading to the recovery of 5,904 grams of hydroponic weed worth Rs5.90 crores.
Additionally, two more passengers, Laxman Mahadik and Harsha Ketan Chheda, were intercepted on the same day. They were found to be carrying 5,904 grams of hydroponic weed hidden inside pillow covers. The recovered substance was also valued at Rs5.90 crores.
The Customs department has taken strict action against the narcotic smugglers, and further investigations are underway to uncover any larger networks involved in the illegal trade.
