DRI Surat Nabs Nigerian National with High-Value Narcotics Concealed in Everyday Items
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Surat executed a significant narcotics bust on Friday, leading to the arrest of a Nigerian woman found in possession of methamphetamine and cocaine with an estimated street value of approximately Rs 2 crore. The contraband was ingeniously hidden inside multivitamin containers and cornflakes packets, showcasing a sophisticated smuggling attempt.
Intelligence-Led Operation on Golden Temple Mail Train
Acting on specific and actionable intelligence, DRI officers strategically intercepted the suspect while she was traveling from Faridabad to Mumbai aboard train No. 12904, famously known as the Golden Temple Mail. The operation was conducted with coordinated support from railway officials, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and the Government Railway Police (GRP) at the railway station, ensuring a swift and secure detention.
Initially, the woman denied carrying any illicit substances, prompting the DRI team to conduct a thorough and detailed search. During the inspection, officers discovered a packet concealed within a multivitamin container in her purse, which contained a suspicious white powdery substance. A subsequent personal search revealed another packet, this time a cornflakes packet strapped around her abdomen, holding a yellowish crystalline material.
Field Tests Confirm Cocaine and Methamphetamine
Preliminary field tests were immediately conducted using a narcotics detection kit, which confirmed the nature of the seized substances. The white powder was identified as cocaine, while the yellowish crystalline substance tested positive for methamphetamine. In total, authorities confiscated 903 grams of methamphetamine and 50 grams of cocaine from the passenger, marking a substantial haul.
The narcotics have been seized under the stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and the accused has been formally arrested for further investigation. Law enforcement agencies are now intensively probing the source of these drugs and their intended destination to dismantle any associated networks.
Laboratory Analysis and Valuation of Seized Drugs
The seized substances have been sent for comprehensive laboratory analysis to determine their exact purity and composition. Based on a preliminary assessment by officials, the methamphetamine is estimated to be worth between Rs 1.5 crore and Rs 1.8 crore, while the cocaine is valued at around Rs 50 lakh, bringing the total estimated value to roughly Rs 2 crore.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of Indian authorities to combat drug trafficking through vigilant surveillance and coordinated operations. The DRI's successful interception underscores the importance of intelligence-sharing and multi-agency collaboration in tackling such transnational crimes.
