Bhubaneswar, Aug 23: In a major crackdown, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized marijuana worth approximately ₹4 crore from the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.

The contraband was being smuggled by a couple — a man and a woman — who had arrived from Bangkok.

Acting on intelligence inputs, the Customs Department intercepted the duo shortly after their arrival. Upon inspection, officials discovered a large quantity of marijuana concealed in their luggage. The couple was immediately detained for questioning, and further investigation is underway to determine the extent of the smuggling network.

Sources reveal that this is not the first time marijuana has been seized at Bhubaneswar Airport. In recent months, multiple such incidents have raised concerns about the airport becoming a hotspot for international drug trafficking.

The seized marijuana is believed to have been intended for distribution across various parts of India. Officials suspect that the couple may be part of a larger syndicate operating across Southeast Asia and India.

The DRI is coordinating with other enforcement agencies to trace the origin and destination of the consignment. The arrested individuals are currently in custody and will be produced before the court after interrogation.