Kolkata, West Bengal, India
In a major anti narcotics operation, Kolkata Customs officials seized a significant quantity of hydroponic cannabis from a passenger arriving from Thailand, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb drug smuggling through international routes.
Speaking on the development, Vinayak Azaad said that the case was registered after a passenger was intercepted during routine checks at the airport. The individual was found carrying approximately 800 grams of hydroponic cannabis, commonly referred to as ganja.
The contraband was cleverly concealed inside a tea tin, indicating an attempt to evade detection by security agencies.
According to officials, the seizure was made through a method known as “spot profiling,” where passengers are identified for detailed checks based on behavioral patterns and travel indicators. The suspect was flagged during this process and subjected to thorough inspection.
He said that it was during such targeted inspection that the passenger was apprehended and the illegal substance was recovered.
The passenger had arrived in Kolkata from Thailand and was taken into custody immediately after the recovery. Authorities have confirmed that he is an Indian national, although further details about his identity and intended destination are yet to be disclosed.
Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing, and more information about the network or intended distribution route is expected to emerge during further questioning.
The estimated market value of the seized hydroponic cannabis is around ₹35 lakh per kilogram, making the 800 gram consignment worth a substantial amount.
Vinayak Azaad also highlighted that this is not an isolated case, pointing out that customs authorities have been consistently intercepting such consignments. Over the past year, Kolkata Customs has reportedly seized around 417 kilograms of similar substances, indicating a broader trend in drug trafficking attempts.
He emphasized that authorities are making continuous efforts to conduct strict inspections and prevent smuggling activities through airports.
Hydroponic cannabis is considered a high potency variant and often commands a higher price in illegal markets, making it a target for international drug trafficking networks.
The incident underscores the vigilance of customs officials and the importance of advanced screening techniques in identifying concealed contraband.
With investigations underway, authorities are working to trace the origin, network, and intended distribution of the seized consignment, as efforts continue to combat drug trafficking in the region.
