MUMBAI, Dec 14 : Mumbai Customs have seized hydroponic cannabis worth Rs 11.5 crore and arrested four persons in three separate drug smuggling cases linked to flights arriving from Bangkok, officials said on Sunday.
In the first case, two passengers arriving from the Thai capital were intercepted at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. They were identified as Ajay Bose, a resident of Ernakulam, and Munir Moiddin from Thrissur, both hailing from Kerala. A search of their baggage led to the recovery of packets containing hydroponic ganja valued at approximately Rs 6 crore.
In the second case, Customs officials, acting on specific intelligence, intercepted Haseena Shaikh, a resident of Andheri in Mumbai, after her arrival. Examination of her luggage revealed green-coloured dry flowering and fruiting tops of the cannabis plant, which tested positive for hydroponic weed. The seized contraband was valued at Rs 2.26 crore.
In the third interception, Mohammad Hussain Shaikh, was caught with 10 packets of hydroponic weed valued at Rs 3.27 crore. The hydrophonic weed is grown indoors in a controlled environment.
According to Customs officials, all four accused admitted in their statements that they were aware of the stringent legal penalties in India for smuggling narcotic substances such as the flowering tops of cannabis plants. They also admitted to being carriers in return for quick monetary gains.
Investigations in all three cases are currently at a preliminary stage. Officials said efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the suppliers based in Bangkok as well as the intended recipients of the consignments in Mumbai. (UNI)
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