Drugs worth ₹50 crore seized at Bengaluru airport; Hydroponic Ganja, Psilocybin Mushrooms found in food tins

In a major drug bust, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) seized 45.4 kg of hydroponic ganja and 6 kg of psilocybin mushrooms, valued at ₹50 crore, at Kempegowda International Airport on October 9. Three individuals, including a Sri Lankan national, were arrested in connection with the international trafficking operation.

Also read: Bengaluru Police seize 4,000 kg of drugs worth ₹45 Cr, deport over 200 foreign peddlers in a year

Acting on intelligence regarding drug cartels smuggling hydroponic ganja from Thailand, NCB officials intercepted two individuals arriving from Colombo. Among the seized items were 31.4 kg of hydroponic ganja and 4 kg of psilocybin mushrooms. Further interrogation led to the arrest of the third suspect, who was found carrying 14 kg of hydroponic ganja and 2 kg of mushrooms.

Drugs were cleverly concealed in 250 food tins

The drugs were cleverly concealed in approximately 250 food tins, vacuum-sealed to avoid detection. NCB officials suspect the involvement of a larger syndicate and are working to identify other members.

Hydroponic ganja is cultivated in controlled, soil-free environments, optimizing conditions for enhanced potency. This strain is particularly prized for its high THC content, which can reach up to 25%, contributing to its intense effects. As a result, it has gained significant popularity within the party and recreational drug scene. Given its high market value, hydroponic ganja is often trafficked across multiple countries, using intricate smuggling routes to evade detection. Popular trafficking routes include Dubai, Colombo, and Kathmandu, which serve as crucial transshipment points. These routes are chosen strategically to avoid increased scrutiny on direct flights from Thailand.