The hydroponic weed seized at Manohar International Airport, Mopa.
MAPUSA
The seizure of over 9 kg of hydroponic weed at Manohar International Airport in Mopa has once again exposed Goa’s vulnerability to international drug trafficking routes linked to tourist destinations.
Acting on specific intelligence, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Goa Customs intercepted a passenger arriving from Bangkok via Tashkent on January 7 and recovered 9.036 kilograms of hydroponic weed (cannabis) concealed in the passenger’s checked-in baggage.
The contraband, valued at approximately Rs 3.16 crore in the illicit market, was found hidden beneath clothes, indicating deliberate attempts to evade detection.
The substance tested positive for drugs using the NDPS field testing kit, following which the consignment was seized and the passenger arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
While the arrest marks a significant seizure, investigators are now focusing on the larger trafficking network, including the source of the drugs, the use of indirect international routes such as Bangkok–Tashkent–Goa, and the intended local distribution channels.
Officials said further investigation is underway to determine whether the passenger was acting as a courier for an organised syndicate.
The seizure comes amid repeated concerns over Goa being used as an entry point for high-value narcotics, particularly hydroponic cannabis, which is increasingly linked to nightlife and tourism circuits.
Customs officials said the department remains committed to intensifying surveillance and enforcement as part of the government’s “Nasha Mukt Bharat” campaign.
