Diplomatic Deception: Mumbai Drug Bust Unveils Smuggling Ploy

Mumbai Customs seized 15 kg of hydroponic weed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, apprehending a traveller attempting to smuggle the substance. Officials revealed the marijuana, valued at Rs 14.73 crore, was hidden in a package labeled as a diplomatic pouch.

The traveller arriving from Bangkok aimed to smuggle the contraband by deceitfully marking his baggage with the Ministry of External Affairs' logos, fooling authorities with false 'top secret' reports. Customs officers detected the illicit goods through meticulous baggage examination.

A formal case has been lodged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as the investigation continues. The incident underscores the innovative methods smugglers employ to bypass airport security.

(With inputs from agencies.)