Massive drug haul on interstate bus as Nigerian national found carrying narcotics worth ₹5 crore
by Utsav RoyOfficials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have seized a large consignment of narcotic substances worth nearly ₹5 crore from a Nigerian woman travelling on a bus from Delhi to Mumbai, an official confirmed on Friday.
The operation also led to the arrest of the individual who was supposed to receive the consignment, following swift action by the authorities. The narcotics, identified as methamphetamine and ecstasy were cleverly concealed inside food items such as oat packets and juice tetra packs to evade detection.
Acting on a tip-off, a DRI surveillance team began trailing a passenger bus heading towards Mumbai from Delhi. After monitoring the vehicle for around 50 kilometers near the city, they intercepted the bus in the early hours of Thursday and apprehended the woman suspect.
A detailed search of her belongings revealed 2.56 kilograms of methamphetamine and 584 grams of ecstasy tablets. Together, the seized substances carry an estimated value of approximately ₹5 crore in the illicit market. Both drugs are known for their high demand at rave parties due to their intense stimulant properties.
Following the bust, the intended recipient of the drugs was also identified and detained. The entire operation was executed under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
An official from the DRI noted that the successful interception and seizure were the result of precise intelligence and coordinated tracking efforts. The arrested Nigerian national is now in custody, and further investigation is in progress to determine the broader network involved in this attempted smuggling operation.
The DRI continues to remain vigilant in its efforts to combat the illegal drug trade and uphold national security through such targeted enforcement actions.