64 kg hydroponic weed seized at Mumbai airport; 4 arrested

Mumbai: In a significant overnight operation the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU), of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai busted attempts at smuggling of hydroponic weed.

The operation was carried out by Mumbai Customs Zone–III.

AIU officers identified and intercepted four passengers arriving from Bangkok, whose alertness and timely intervention led to the detection of four cases involving the smuggling of suspected hydroponic weed.

A thorough examination resulted in the recovery of approximately 64.394 kilograms of the contraband, with an estimated illicit market value of Rs 64.394 crore.

Among those apprehended one was a foreign national, indicating a new modus involving foreign national to carry large quantity.

All four individuals have been placed under arrest in accordance with the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.

Notably, during the financial year 2025–26 up to March 18, 2026, the Airport Commissionerate at CSMIA has seized over 1,330 kilograms of hydroponic weed across 244 cases, resulting in the arrest of 286 individuals. This reflects sustained enforcement efforts and reinforces the department’s zero-tolerance approach toward drug smuggling.