Cannabis Worth Over 19 Crores Seized at Varanasi Airport, 6 Thai Nationals Arrested

In a major operation, customs officials at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Babatpur Airport) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, have seized cannabis worth over 19 crores. Six Thai nationals have been arrested in connection with the seizure. According to information received from customs and police officials, the incident occurred on Saturday during the inspection of passengers who arrived on an Air India Express flight from Bangkok. Officials stated that during routine checks, some passengers raised suspicion, leading to the search of their trolley bags. The search yielded approximately 19.7 kilograms of cannabis hidden in plastic packets. The seized narcotics are valued at over 19 crores. It was also discovered that the seized cannabis is of the 'hydroponic cannabis' variety, a high-potency strain of cannabis. This type of cannabis is cultivated using a nutrient-rich water-based system rather than traditional soil. This information points to the use of advanced techniques in drug smuggling. During interrogation, the arrested individuals made a startling revelation, admitting that they had previously smuggled narcotics via the Kolkata-Gaya route. This information is significant for investigating agencies, as it suggests the operation of a large smuggling network. Additionally, investigating agencies are conducting a thorough probe into the role of another Thai woman who may be connected to this smuggling operation. All six arrested individuals were produced before a magistrate and, after completing necessary legal formalities, were sent to judicial custody. Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing to uncover the larger network involved in the smuggling and to apprehend other individuals connected to this illicit trade. This action demonstrates the vigilance of the customs and police departments in combating drug smuggling.