New Delhi: Delhi Customs officials have foiled another major smuggling attempt at the Air Cargo Complex in New Delhi. On the intervening night of October 21/22, 2026, the authorities achieved another major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation against drug trafficking syndicates. The initial test identified the recovered substance as hydroponic marijuana (hydro hemp). A total of 23.220 kg of narcotics have been recovered and seized.
The estimated market value of the seized narcotics is approximately ₹8.12 crore, while the estimated market value of the seized narcotics is around ₹23 crore in India. These drugs and packaging material used in the smuggling have been seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Based on intelligence gathered during the previous operation of seizure of 148.675 kg of ganja from Bangkok, the Customs officers seized another suspected import consignment coming from Bangkok, which was reported to be lamps. The previous seizure unearthed a major smuggling syndicate and led to a series of coordinated actions at 11 locations spread across three states.
The investigation of the consignment commenced after the interrogation of a person linked to the person arrested in the first seizure on October 15, 2026. In a detailed examination of the consignment in the presence of the importer, several lamps were found mounted on wooden pallets. Although the material appeared harmless to look at, X-ray imaging showed unusual patterns. Upon further investigation, the officers opened the base of the wooden pallet, resulting in the recovery of 23 vacuum-sealed packets filled with compressed green leafy matter concealed within the pallet structure.
As a result of the ongoing operation, one more person was arrested on 22nd October, 2026, who was produced before the concerned Magistrate late in the evening of the same day. Further investigations are in progress. With this fresh seizure, Delhi Customs has seized approximately 172 kg of narcotics in the ongoing investigation and arrested two individuals, dealing a significant blow to the smuggling network.
[DD news]