Passenger Caught With ₹6.12 Crore Worth Of Hydroponic Marijuana At Pune Airport
Passenger Caught With ₹6.12 Crore Worth Of Hydroponic Marijuana At Pune Airport
Pune, August 7, 2025: In a major drug seizure at Pune International Airport, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) intercepted a passenger arriving from Bangkok and recovered a substantial quantity of high-grade narcotics.
Acting on profiling and observing suspicious behaviour, AIU officers stopped Atul Sushil Hiwale, who had landed in Pune on Air India Express Flight No. IX-241. Upon examination of his check-in trolley bag, officials discovered 6,119.15 grams of narcotic substances believed to be hydroponic marijuana, also known as hydroponic weed.
The seized contraband, with an estimated value of ₹6.12 crore in the international illicit drug market, was carefully concealed inside the luggage, raising serious concerns about evolving smuggling tactics through international flights.
The authorities immediately booked a case under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The accused was promptly taken into custody and presented before a magistrate, who remanded him to judicial custody.
This seizure marks a significant success for Pune’s Air Intelligence Unit, highlighting its vigilance against cross-border narcotics trafficking. Hydroponic weed, a potent variant of marijuana cultivated using nutrient-rich water solutions, is increasingly trafficked into India through air routes due to its high street value and rising demand.
Officials confirmed that further investigation is underway to trace the source, intended recipients, and possible links to an international smuggling network.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to curb drug trafficking and warned that stringent action would be taken against those involved in such illegal activities.
