Key Takeaways
- Woman arrested at Mumbai airport with 4.7 kg cocaine worth ₹47 crore hidden in coffee packets
- Four additional syndicate members apprehended in coordinated DRI operation
- All five accused charged under NDPS Act, 1985
A woman arriving from Colombo was arrested at Mumbai airport for smuggling 4.7 kilograms of cocaine concealed inside nine coffee packets, with the contraband valued at approximately ₹47 crore in the illegal market.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) also captured four other members of the drug syndicate during the operation. One suspect had come to receive the consignment at the airport, while the others were involved in financing, logistics, and distribution networks.
Operation Details
Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials intercepted the female passenger shortly after her arrival and conducted a thorough examination of her baggage.
The investigation revealed nine pouches containing a white powdery substance cleverly hidden within coffee packets. Preliminary testing using NDPS field kits confirmed the material was cocaine.
Broader Investigation
The DRI described this seizure as a major blow to international drug trafficking networks and has launched a comprehensive investigation to uncover the wider transnational syndicate behind the smuggling attempt.
Recent DRI seizures indicate a concerning pattern where international drug cartels are increasingly exploiting Indian women as couriers. They conceal narcotics within food items and everyday edibles to camouflage contraband and avoid detection.
Related Narcotics Bust
In a separate operation last month, the DRI dismantled a major narcotics manufacturing and distribution network across the National Capital Region.
Authorities arrested 26 foreign nationals and seized substantial quantities of drugs including 16.27 kg of amphetamine, 7.9 kg of cocaine, 1.8 kg of heroin, 2.13 kg of ganja, and 115.42 kg of precursor chemicals. The total seizure was valued at approximately ₹108.81 crore in the international illicit market.
This coordinated multi-day operation was conducted between October 21 and 23, according to an official statement.
