In a significant operation on Friday morning, the Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow arrested a passenger and seized 10.39 kilograms of hydroponic marijuana valued at Rs 10.39 crore.
Passenger Profile and Initial Interception
The accused, identified as Manpreet Singh, arrived at Lucknow airport aboard Oman Air flight WY-265. Immigration authorities flagged him due to his suspicious travel history and subsequently detained him for questioning.
Confession and Handover to AIU
During the preliminary inquiry, the passenger allegedly admitted to acting as a drug carrier. Following this admission, he was handed over to the Air Intelligence Unit for further investigation and examination.
Detailed Search and Recovery
Customs officers conducted a thorough inspection of his checked-in luggage. During the search, they discovered 13 polythene packets cleverly concealed inside a trolley bag. These packets were found to contain hydroponic marijuana, a high-potency form of cannabis.
Legal Action Under NDPS Act
The recovered narcotics were seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Following the seizure, Manpreet Singh was formally arrested under the same Act.
This operation highlights the vigilance of customs authorities in curbing drug trafficking through the airport. The investigation is ongoing to trace the source and intended destination of the contraband.
