Chennai Customs Foils Smuggling Attempt at Chennai Airport

Chennai:

Port Wings News Network:

Based on specific intelligence, officers of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU), Chennai Customs, intercepted an Indian male passenger arriving from Bangkok by Air Asia Flight No. FD-153 at Chennai Anna International Airport on 25 May, 2026.

An examination of his checked-in baggage led to the recovery of 10 airtight packets concealed inside food item packets. The packets contained 10,114 grams of green flowering/fruiting tops, hidden among his personal belongings.

During a preliminary enquiry, the passenger admitted to carrying the contraband for a monetary consideration. The passenger has been arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and produced before the Judicial Magistrate for remand. Further investigation is currently in progress.

This seizure underscores the heightened vigilance of the AIU, Chennai Customs, working in close coordination with other Drug Law Enforcement Agencies to curb drug trafficking through Chennai Airport, reaffirming its commitment to the “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” for a drug-free India.

Chennai Customs advises the public, particularly the youth, to remain vigilant against offers of sponsored foreign travel or easy money. Analysis of recent cases reveals that smuggling syndicates frequently target young individuals by funding their travel, accommodation, and expenses to use them for carrying contraband into India. Involvement in such activities can ruin lives, as these are serious offences under the law inviting strict punishment and long-term legal consequences.