Woman Returning from Bangkok Was Keeping a Secret at Mumbai Airport Until Her Smell Made Her Know

Last Update:27 November 2024 13:29 IST

Customs officials arrested two men on charges of smuggling 21 kg of hydroponic marijuana in two separate incidents. The value of cannabis originating from Bangkok is estimated at Rp 22 million

Authorities have reported a recent increase in cannabis smuggling from Bangkok, coinciding with Thailand becoming the first Asian country to legalize medical marijuana. (News18 Hindi)

Planning trips to enjoy holidays in Bangkok has gained widespread popularity, especially among young people who save money for months to finance their trips. However, some travelers make a critical mistake and face legal problems when they return. This scenario emerged recently at the Mumbai airport when a young woman and another person, both returning from Bangkok, were arrested for possession of marijuana.

Customs officials arrested two men on charges of smuggling 21 kg of hydroponic marijuana in two separate incidents. The value of cannabis originating from Bangkok is estimated at Rp 22 million. Authorities have reported a recent increase in cannabis smuggling from Bangkok, coinciding with Thailand becoming the first Asian country to legalize medical marijuana.

Patrignaben Kapadia, a resident of Navsari, Gujarat, who came from Bangkok, was caught with marijuana at the Mumbai airport. After examining his luggage, customs officers found a large number of clothes. They initially did not suspect any wrongdoing. However, after removing the clothes, a distinct odor emanating from the bag raised suspicion.

When Kapadia’s bag was emptied, vacuum-sealed packages containing a green, dry, leafy and pungent-smelling substance were found. Field kit testing confirmed the substance was hydroponic ganja (marijuana). The vehicle weighs 14.62 kg and has an estimated value of Rs 14 billion in the international market, an official said.

In a separate incident, 31-year-old Kerala resident Muhammad Pulikkalakath was stopped and questioned by customs officials after arriving from Bangkok. They seized ganja worth Rs 8 million from his possession. Customs found 8.3 kg of dried cannabis pieces in his luggage; Upon examination, it was confirmed to be marijuana and its value was determined to be approximately R8.3 million.