DRI Seizes ₹15.46 Crore Worth Hydroponic Cannabis at Lucknow Airport, Two Arrested
Lucknow: In a significant crackdown on drug smuggling, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 15.46 kilograms of high-grade hydroponic cannabis at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow. The seizure was made on June 10 based on specific intelligence inputs.
Two Indian nationals who had arrived from Bangkok on Flight No. IX 104 were intercepted by DRI officials upon their arrival. During a thorough examination of their checked-in baggage, officers discovered multiple vacuum-sealed packets concealed within aluminum foil. Upon field testing, the greenish, lumpy substance inside was confirmed to be cannabis.
The contraband, identified as hydroponic cannabis, is a premium variant of cannabis cultivated in a controlled indoor environment without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. Known for its higher potency, this variety is in high demand in illegal drug markets.
The estimated street value of the seized cannabis is approximately ₹15.46 crore.
Both passengers were taken into custody under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Officials said that further investigation is currently underway to uncover the larger network behind the smuggling operation.
The seizure highlights the increasing use of international air routes by drug traffickers and the growing challenge of controlling the influx of synthetic and high-grade narcotics into the country.
