Customs personnel at Indira Gandhi International Airport seized more than 12.8 kg of material believed to be cannabis from a passenger arriving from Bangkok. Valued at roughly ₹4.5 crore on the global market, the haul highlights the agency’s intensified focus on curbing narcotics smuggling.
Traveller Flagged During Routine Profiling
The operation unfolded on 6 October 2026 at Terminal 3, when a passenger disembarking from Air India flight AI‑2335 was diverted from the green channel after officers detected anomalies during standard profiling procedures.
The green channel is typically reserved for passengers with nothing to declare, yet customs retains the authority to summon anyone for a secondary inspection if suspicion arises.
Thirteen Sealed Packets Hidden in a Silver Trolley
Inspectors opened the traveller’s silver‑coloured metallic trolley and discovered 13 sealed polythene packets. While laboratory confirmation is pending, the contents are suspected to be cannabis, commonly known as marijuana.
The total net weight recorded was 12,859.5 grams – roughly 12.86 kg – with an estimated street value of about ₹4.5 crore.
Customs Shares Operational Insight
Delhi Customs (Airport and General) posted a briefing of the seizure on its official social‑media platforms, emphasizing that passenger profiling, targeted baggage checks, and continuous surveillance are critical tools for uncovering illicit shipments.
In this instance, the profiling alert prompted a deeper bag inspection, leading to the discovery of the concealed packets.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are now tracing the origin of the seized substance, mapping the logistics of its transport, and identifying any accomplices. The probe will also assess whether the seizure ties into a larger trafficking network and determine the intended end‑use of the narcotics.
Legal proceedings will commence once forensic results and investigative reports are compiled.
Conclusion: Delhi customs intercepted approximately 12.86 kg of suspected cannabis worth ₹4.5 crore from a passenger’s trolley bag arriving from Bangkok on 6 October 2026, triggering a comprehensive investigation into the case and any associated smuggling operations.
