Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International Airport stopped a traveler arriving from Bangkok and seized more than 12.8 kg of a substance identified as cannabis. Valued at roughly ₹4.5 crore on the global market, the haul highlights the agency’s intensified focus on narcotics interdiction.
Passenger Flagged in Routine Profiling
The operation unfolded on 6 October 2026 at Terminal 3, when the traveller disembarked from Air India flight AI‑2335. While being processed through the green lane, officials noted irregularities in the passenger’s profile, prompting a secondary inspection.
The green lane is typically reserved for travelers with nothing to declare, but customs retains the authority to pull any individual for additional checks when suspicion arises.
Thirteen Sealed Packs Hidden in a Metallic Trolley
Inspectors opened the silver‑coloured trolley and discovered 13 tightly sealed polythene packets. Laboratory testing is pending, but the contents are presumed to be cannabis, commonly referred to as marijuana.
The combined net weight of the confiscated material was recorded at 12,859.5 grams — approximately 12.86 kg — with an estimated street value of about ₹4.5 crore.
Customs Releases Operational Details
Delhi Customs (Airport and General) published a brief of the operation on its official social‑media platforms, emphasizing that passenger profiling, targeted baggage checks, and continuous surveillance are vital tools for intercepting illicit cargo.
In this case, the profiling trigger led officers to a deeper examination, which uncovered the concealed packets.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are now tracing the origin of the seized cannabis, mapping the logistics of its transport, and identifying any accomplices. The probe will also assess whether the seizure is linked to a larger trafficking network and determine the intended purpose of the import.
Legal action will follow once the evidence is compiled and the investigative report is finalized.
Conclusion: Delhi customs confiscated roughly 12.86 kg of suspected cannabis worth ₹4.5 crore from a passenger’s trolley bag arriving from Bangkok. The seizure, carried out at Terminal 3 on 6 October 2026, has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident and any associated smuggling operations.
