Ganja seized at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has led to the arrest of two passengers who attempted to smuggle high-quality hydroponic ganja into the city. The narcotic substance, which weighs 8 kilograms, is valued at nearly Rs 80 lakh. The flyers, who arrived on separate flights from Bangkok, have been booked under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. Investigations are currently underway to determine the full scope of the smuggling operation.
Details of the Seizure at Kempegowda Airport
Ganja seized during this operation is hydroponic ganja, which is cultivated using water-based methods inside controlled environments with added nutrients. This variety of ganja has gained popularity among youth, particularly for consumption at parties. The passengers, both middle-aged Indian nationals, arrived at KIA from Thailand on December 19 and December 20. Airport customs officials had profiled the duo based on their travel history, leading to the interception.
Upon inspection, one of the suspects had concealed the ganja inside a trolley suitcase, while the other hid the substance within snack packets. The customs officials believe that although the passengers appeared to be acting alone, they were likely part of a larger smuggling syndicate. Their return from Thailand, after spending nearly three weeks there, is a typical tactic used by smugglers posing as tourists.
A Growing Concern: Hydroponic Ganja Seizures
The recent ganja seizure is the second major bust of hydroponic ganja within a short span of three weeks at KIA. In a similar incident between November 30 and December 1, airport officials confiscated hydroponic ganja worth Rs 1.25 crore from passengers who had concealed it in chip packets. This surge in seizures indicates a growing trend of smuggling such narcotic substances into India, where the demand for hydroponic ganja, particularly among young people, is on the rise.
The growing popularity of this form of ganja is largely due to its potency, as it is grown with enhanced control over its conditions, making it stronger and more desirable in the underground market. Authorities are working hard to curb this trend, with the recent busts highlighting the vigilance of customs and airport security personnel.
Investigation and Smuggling Routes
The customs officials have yet to determine whether the two arrested individuals intended to sell the seized ganja within Bengaluru or ship it elsewhere in India. The smuggling network involved is still under investigation. Officials remain focused on identifying other members of the syndicate and disrupting their operations.
As Bengaluru continues to be a focal point for such smuggling attempts, authorities are intensifying their efforts to intercept narcotics and prevent the influx of drugs into the city. The arrests serve as a reminder of the ongoing battle against narcotic trafficking in India.