Cocaine worth ₹40 cr seized at Bengaluru airport; trafficker arrested

In a major narcotics bust, officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have seized over 4 kg of cocaine at Kempegowda International Airport. The contraband, valued at approximately ₹40 crore in the international market, was recovered from an Indian national arriving from Doha.

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The passenger, intercepted by the Bengaluru Zonal Unit of the DRI on July 18, was found carrying two superhero-themed comic books that appeared suspiciously heavy. Upon detailed inspection, officers discovered white powder concealed within the covers of the magazines.

Preliminary testing confirmed the substance to be cocaine, and a total of 4,006 grams was confiscated. Authorities promptly initiated action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.

Following the seizure, the individual was arrested and presented before the appropriate legal authority. He has since been remanded to judicial custody as investigations continue to trace the network involved in the attempted smuggling.

This incident highlights the increasingly innovative methods traffickers are employing to smuggle illicit substances through international airports. The DRI has intensified its vigilance and screening protocols to combat the growing threat of drug trafficking across borders.

Officials reiterated their commitment to curbing narcotics smuggling and disrupting international drug syndicates operating through Indian airports.