Kochi (Nedumbassery): Customs officials at Cochin International Airport (CIAL), Nedumbassery, successfully thwarted a major narcotics smuggling attempt early this morning, seizing approximately 6.5 kilograms of high-value hybrid cannabis, commonly known as ‘hydroponic weed.’
The seized contraband, which was smuggled into Kochi on a flight originating from Bangkok, is estimated to have a street value of around ₹6.5 crore (65 million Indian Rupees) on the international market.
The individual arrested in connection with the smuggling operation has been identified as Abdul Samad, a resident of the Wayanad district in Kerala.
Customs intercepted Samad upon his arrival at CIAL. Initial investigations revealed that the high-potency substance was intricately concealed inside food packets in an attempt to bypass security checks.
The suspect reportedly confessed to being recruited by a larger narcotics syndicate. He claimed he was promised a payment of approximately ₹50,000, along with a free flight ticket and accommodation, for executing the smuggling task. A comprehensive investigation is currently underway to dismantle the network responsible for this operation and to trace the origins and intended recipients of the contraband.
