Nagpur Airport Customs Seize Narcotics Worth Rs 8.81 Crore from Uganda Passenger

In a significant operation at Nagpur International Airport, customs officials apprehended a passenger from Tamil Nadu for smuggling narcotics drugs valued at approximately Rs 8.81 crore. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of Thursday, has put a spotlight on the vigilant efforts of the customs department to curb drug trafficking through air travel.

The passenger, a 45-year-old resident of Chennai, had arrived from Uganda via Doha on a Qatar Airways flight. Despite attempting to pass through the green channel without declaring any items, his abnormal behaviour caught the attention of the customs officials who were conducting passenger profiling at the time.

Upon a thorough inspection of his luggage, officials discovered suspicious items including one dummy propeller and two plate-shaped discs. A closer examination revealed that these objects contained white and yellow coloured powder substance. Subsequent testing with a drug detection kit confirmed the substance to be methaqualone, a banned sedative hypnotic drug.

The total seizure weighed 2.937 kg and was valued at Rs 8.81 crore. Following the discovery, the passenger was arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The customs department has initiated further investigation to unravel any additional links to this smuggling operation.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by customs and law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal drug trade. Methaqualone, once prescribed as a sedative and hypnotic medication, has been banned due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. Its seizure at Nagpur International Airport not only prevents a significant quantity of narcotics from entering the market but also highlights the critical role of customs officials in maintaining national security.

The customs department's proactive approach in profiling passengers and inspecting luggage played a crucial role in this successful operation. As investigations continue, this case serves as a reminder of the persistent efforts required to combat drug trafficking and protect communities from the scourge of narcotics.