Pune Customs Seizes Drugs Worth ₹2.61 Crore From Passenger Arriving From Bangkok
Pune Customs Seizes Drugs Worth ₹2.61 Crore From Passenger Arriving From Bangkok
Pune, September 20, 2025: The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Pune Commissionerate has made a major drug seizure at Pune International Airport, recovering methaqualone worth nearly ₹2.61 crore from a passenger arriving from Bangkok.
The operation took place on September 18 after officers received specific intelligence about possible smuggling on Air India Express Flight IX-241. Acting swiftly, AIU officials intercepted a passenger and conducted a detailed examination of their check-in luggage. During the search, officers discovered a white substance in both powder and crystal form.
The contraband, weighing 5.23 kilograms, was subjected to field testing, which confirmed it as methaqualone, a psychotropic substance banned under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Officials immediately seized the narcotics, valued at approximately ₹2.61 crore in the illicit market, and placed the passenger under arrest. The accused is now facing charges under the NDPS Act.
Methaqualone, commonly known for its use in illegal recreational drugs, is highly addictive and poses serious health risks. Authorities believe the substance was being smuggled into India for distribution through underground networks.
The seizure highlights Pune Airport’s increasing role as a transit point for drug smuggling and the vigilance of enforcement agencies in curbing such illicit activities. Further investigations are underway to trace the source of the consignment and identify possible accomplices linked to the smuggling operation.
