DRI Seizes Cocaine Worth 1329 Crore At Mumbai Airport Two Arrested

A massive drug bust unfolded at Mumbai Airport as the DRI intercepted a consignment containing a staggering ₹1329 crore worth of cocaine. The operation, conducted on May 25, 2026, targeted illicit trafficking through air cargo. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers identified suspicious cargo arriving at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Upon inspection, 191 kg of high-purity cocaine was discovered, concealed within the cargo. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the seizure, and are being investigated under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. The DRI is now tracing the origin and destination of the seized narcotics, as well as any potential involvement of other individuals or entities in this smuggling operation. Provisional attachment of assets may follow if proceeds of crime are traced.

Section 135 of the Customs Act, 1962, deals with the offences and penalties related to the evasion of duty or prohibitions. Smuggling cocaine attracts severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines, under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, read with the Customs Act. Confiscation of the goods and any conveyance used in the smuggling is also possible under Section 125 of the Customs Act.

Such large-scale seizures indicate sophisticated smuggling networks and potential vulnerabilities in customs procedures. CAs and CFOs should advise clients involved in international trade to implement robust internal controls and compliance programs to prevent inadvertent involvement in illegal activities. Enhanced scrutiny by customs authorities may lead to increased audits and investigations for businesses in related sectors.

This seizure highlights the ongoing efforts of enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and protect the nation's financial interests, while also underscoring the potential for significant financial penalties and prosecution for those involved.