The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) foiled a high-value international drug smuggling bid by seizing 4.7 kg of cocaine, worth around ₹47 crore, from a female passenger arriving from Colombo at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai.
Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers intercepted the passenger and discovered nine pouches of cocaine hidden inside coffee packets. Preliminary tests confirmed the substance as cocaine.
In a coordinated follow-up operation, DRI arrested four more individuals linked to the syndicate — one who came to collect the consignment and three others involved in financing, logistics, and distribution. All five have been booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
The DRI noted a growing trend of international drug networks using women couriers and concealing narcotics in food items to evade detection. Investigations are ongoing to identify the wider transnational syndicate behind the smuggling attempt.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to the “Nasha Mukt Bharat” mission, aiming to disrupt narcotics supply chains and protect India’s youth, economy, and national security.