CHENNAI: High-quality hydroponic ganja smuggled from Thailand, weighing about two kg and estimated to be worth Rs one crore, was seized by Customs officials at the Chennai airport.
According to officials, the Air Intelligence Unit of Chennai Customs received a specific intelligence alert that a large quantity of narcotics was being smuggled into Chennai on a flight arriving from Thailand.
Acting on the tip-off, Customs officers kept the airport under heightened surveillance on Friday night.
When a flight from Bangkok landed at Chennai, the arriving passengers were subjected to detailed checks. During the screening, officials grew suspicious of a male passenger from a northern state, around 30 years old.
Officials said he had travelled to Thailand on a tourist visa but returned directly to Chennai instead of his home state. When questioned, the passenger reportedly gave evasive answers, raising further suspicion.
A thorough inspection of his baggage revealed several packaged food items inside his suitcase. On opening the packets, the officials found hydroponic ganja concealed within.
Officials said two kg of the narcotic substance was recovered and seized.
The passenger was arrested, and Customs officials are questioning him in detail to identify the main operators behind the smuggling racket.