HYDERABAD: In a major drug bust, officers of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi, seized 3.317 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately ₹46.44 crore on the international market.
The seizure took place during the night shift of April 9–10, 2025, based on specific intelligence inputs. Customs officials intercepted a 23-year-old Indian male passenger who had arrived from Entebbe, Uganda, via Sharjah on Flight No. G9-463.
The individual was stopped after passing through the Green Channel. During an X-ray screening of his baggage, officers detected signs of suspicious concealment. He was immediately escorted to the Preventive Room for a detailed examination, which was conducted in the presence of two independent witnesses.
Upon thorough inspection, six packets containing white powder were discovered hidden within the periphery of the baggage. Preliminary testing using the NDPS Field Test Kit confirmed the substance to be cocaine.
• Gross weight (with packaging): 3,616 grams
• Net weight: 3,317 grams (3.317 kg)
• Estimated market value: ₹46.44 crore (calculated at ₹14 crore per kilogram)
The passenger was detained on the spot, and legal proceedings have been initiated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as well as the Customs Act.
This interception underscores the continuous vigilance of Customs officials at IGI Airport, who remain committed to curbing narcotics trafficking and safeguarding national security.
