Major Drug Bust at IGI Airport: Two Thai Nationals Arrested

In a significant operation, Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International Airport apprehended two Thai nationals after discovering approximately 47.805 kg of suspected hydroponic cannabis in their luggage. The seizure, valued at around Rs 48 crore, highlights the ongoing challenges of narcotics smuggling through international air routes. Both individuals are in custody as authorities investigate the source and potential trafficking networks involved. This incident marks one of the largest drug busts at the airport in recent times, raising concerns about the scale of such operations.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 23, 2026, 12:44 IST

Significant Narcotics Seizure at New Delhi Airport

Photo: IANS

New Delhi, May 23: Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi apprehended two Thai nationals arriving from Bangkok on flight AI-2356 after they bypassed the Customs Green Channel, leading to a significant narcotics seizure involving suspected hydroponic cannabis, as reported by officials on Saturday.

Based on specific profiling and suspicious travel behaviors, Customs officers conducted a thorough examination of the luggage belonging to both individuals.

This detailed inspection resulted in the discovery of six vacuum-sealed packets believed to contain hydroponic cannabis. Of these, four packets weighing around 29 kg were found in one passenger's luggage, while the other passenger had two packets weighing approximately 19 kg.

The total weight of the suspected narcotic substance seized amounts to about 47.805 kg. Officials indicated that the estimated market value of the recovered drugs is around Rs 48 crore, marking it as one of the largest seizures at IGI Airport in recent history.

Customs authorities confirmed that both individuals were stopped immediately after passing through the Green Channel, which is intended for travelers carrying no dutiable or prohibited items. The seizure was executed following targeted profiling and intelligence-driven monitoring by Customs personnel stationed at the airport.

Officials noted that this incident represents one of the most substantial drug seizures at IGI Airport in recent times, underscoring the scale of narcotics smuggling attempts via international air travel. The consignment has been confiscated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and both suspects are currently in custody for further investigation.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the source, intended destination, and the broader network involved in this smuggling operation. They are also examining potential links between the seized narcotics and an international trafficking syndicate operating through Southeast Asian routes.