In a historical development, officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) made a groundbreaking seizure of 3.22 kg of ‘black cocaine’ worth Rs 32 crore at Ahmedabad airport. This marked the first-ever instance of such a seizure of ‘black cocaine’ in India. The illicit substance was discovered in the possession of a Brazilian national who had arrived from Sau Paulo on a tourist visa.
Acting on intelligence gathered, DRI officers intercepted the individual at Ahmedabad International Airport, suspecting him of attempting to smuggle cocaine into the country. Subsequently, the seized material underwent examination by a team of Forensic Science lab officers using specialised field-testing equipment, confirming the presence of cocaine. Consequently, 3.22 kg of the substance was confiscated under the provisions of the NDPS Act 1985. The apprehended passenger admitted his active involvement in the smuggling operation and was arrested.
Although no concealment was initially detected in the passenger’s trolley and cabin bag, authorities noticed an unusual thickness in the base and walls of the bag, with a rubbery texture that turned granular under pressure. This distinct modus operandi involves mixing cocaine with charcoal and other chemicals to create a black rubbery appearance, effectively camouflaging the illicit substance and thwarting detection by sniffer dogs and field-testing kits.
The ministry emphasised that this unique method of smuggling cocaine, resulting in the seizure of ‘black cocaine,’ had not been encountered by the DRI previously. This significant development underscores the agency’s commitment to combatting drug trafficking and the continuous efforts to stay ahead of evolving smuggling techniques. The successful interception and arrest of the Brazilian national signify a significant victory in the ongoing battle against the illicit narcotics trade.