Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Sep 13: In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has busted a major drug syndicate in Kolkata, seizing narcotics valued at Rs 26 crore and arresting 10 Indian nationals, including the mastermind of the operation.
The seizures include:
• 32.466 kg of Cannabis (Ganja)
• 22.027 kg of Hydroponic Weed
• 345 grams of Cocaine
• Undisclosed amount of cash, suspected to be proceeds of drug sales
According to a DRI official, the operation unfolded in the early hours of Friday with simultaneous raids at three locations:
1. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI), Kolkata
2. Two residential premises in Bijoygarh, Jadavpur
Key Highlights:
• At one residential premise belonging to the mastermind, officers found large quantities of hydroponic weed, cannabis, and cocaine.
• At another rented location operated by the mastermind, a significant stock of cannabis was recovered, already packaged and ready for distribution.
• Four associates involved in the local distribution and sale of narcotics were apprehended at this site.
• Another syndicate member responsible for sourcing drugs from international suppliers was detained separately.
Airport Operation:
Simultaneously, DRI officials intercepted four drug couriers, including three women, arriving from Bangkok at the NSCBI Airport. They were found carrying substantial quantities of narcotics, confirming the international links of the syndicate.
Legal Action:
All 10 arrested individuals — comprising the kingpin, carriers, retail distributors, and intermediaries — have been booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and presented before courts for judicial remand.
The DRI stated that the bust represents a major disruption to the narcotics network operating in and around Kolkata, with international linkages for drug supply and a well-organized local distribution chain.
Further investigation is ongoing to trace financial trails, foreign suppliers, and possible links to other states or international cartels.