DRI seizes 7.71 kg hydroponic cannabis worth ₹8 crore at Ahmedabad airport, passenger arrested

Officers of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Ahmedabad, have seized 7.71 kilograms of high-grade hydroponic cannabis, valued at approximately ₹8 crore in the illicit market, from an Indian national who arrived from Bangkok at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, officials said.

Acting on specific intelligence, the DRI team intercepted the passenger upon arrival and subjected his check-in baggage to a thorough and systematic examination. During the search, officers detected six vacuum-packed polythene packets concealed among clothing items. On opening the packets, the contents were found to be a greenish, lumpy substance emitting a sharp and pungent odour, raising suspicion of high-grade cannabis, commonly referred to as hydroponic weed.

Subsequent field testing confirmed the presence of cannabis, following which the contraband was seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The passenger was placed under arrest, officials added.

According to the DRI, hydroponic cannabis is a premium variant cultivated using controlled indoor methods and commands a significantly higher price in the illegal market compared to conventional cannabis. The recovery of such a large quantity indicates an organised smuggling attempt, investigators said.

The DRI has initiated further investigation to trace the source of the contraband, the intended recipients, and to ascertain whether the accused is part of a larger international drug trafficking network. Officials said efforts are also underway to identify possible links with other similar seizures reported across the country in recent months.

Further investigation is in progress.