MUMBAI: Mumbai Customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport cracked down on three separate smuggling attempts on Saturday, seizing narcotic substances, exotic wildlife, and gold worth over ₹11 crore. A total of four individuals were arrested in connection with the incidents, which were booked under the NDPS Act, Wildlife Protection Act, and Customs Act.
Drugs Worth ₹9.66 Crore Seized from Bangkok Flyer
In the most significant bust, acting on specific intelligence, Customs officials from Zone-III intercepted Mohammed Rohan Shaikh, a resident of Ahmedabad who had arrived from Bangkok. A detailed inspection of his checked-in baggage led to the seizure of 9.66 kg of hydroponic marijuana, a high-grade cannabis strain valued at ₹9.66 crore on the illegal market.
The drugs were expertly concealed in his luggage, and Shaikh was arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Live and Dead Exotic Animals Found in Luggage
In a separate case, another passenger from Bangkok was stopped based on profiling. Upon inspecting his baggage, Customs officials uncovered a disturbing haul of exotic wildlife, including:
- 1 live and 3 dead raccoons (Procyon lotor)
- 3 dead black fox squirrels (Sciurus niger)
- 29 live and 8 dead green iguanas (Iguana spp.)
As these species are non-native to India, the live animals were handed over to airline authorities for immediate deportation to their country of origin to maximize survival chances. Legal action was initiated under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Customs Act, 1962. The passenger was placed under arrest.
Gold Smuggling Attempt from Dubai Busted
In the third operation, Customs officials intercepted two passengers arriving from Dubai and seized 1.650 kg of 24KT gold, valued at ₹1.49 crore. The gold was found in dust mixed with wax and in the form of concealed pieces, hidden inside body cavities and clothing.
The seizure was made under the Customs Act, 1962, and both passengers were arrested.
The coordinated actions by Mumbai Customs reflect increased vigilance and stringent enforcement against smuggling networks operating through international airports.
