DRI thwarts ₹8.3 crore drug trafficking attempt in Bengaluru, three held

DRI seizes ₹8.3 crore in drugs and arrests three in Bengaluru, disrupting a major trafficking operation.

In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) sleuths of the Bengaluru Zonal Unit seized a substantial quantity of contraband and arrested three individuals in connection with the case.

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials intercepted a 26-year-old passenger from Mizoram upon his arrival at KSR Railway Station in Bengaluru from New Delhi. A thorough examination of his baggage led to the recovery of approximately 8.3 kg of a psychotropic substance suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as crystal meth. The seized contraband is estimated to have an illicit market value of ₹8.3 crore.

In a statement, the DRI stated that the quantity recovered falls under the category of “commercial quantity” as defined under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.

Following the initial seizure, follow-up operations led to the identification and interception of two more individuals linked to the case at separate locations across the city. The two accused, both local residents aged around 25 and 29, were subsequently arrested, the DRI said in the statement.

During a search at the premises of one of the accused, officials recovered around 200 SIM cards, nearly 45 debit and credit cards, and multiple mobile phones. The DRI suspects these items were used to facilitate and operate the drug trafficking network.

The statement noted that further investigation is under way to trace the possible wider network and identify other individuals involved in the operation.