Hydroponic Weed Seized at Mumbai Airport in Diplomatic Disguise

Mumbai Customs officials have apprehended a traveller at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for allegedly attempting to smuggle 15 kg of hydroponic weed. The estimated value of the seized contraband is Rs 14.73 crore.

The illegal substance was cleverly hidden in a packet marked as a 'Diplomatic Pouch of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)' to avoid detection. Official sources reported that the traveller had arrived from Bangkok, carrying the disguised shipment.

Upon inspection, Customs officers uncovered 14.738 kg of marijuana, falsely declared as confidential diplomatic cargo linked to national security. Envelopes bore fake Ministry marks and included UNODC and 'top secret mission' reports. The traveller now faces charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)