Gujarat: DRI seizes 2 kg cocaine consignment in Surat; 1 held
New Delhi, June 26
In continuation of its sustained efforts to curb drug trafficking and dismantle narcotics supply networks, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence on Friday seized 2 kg of cocaine at Surat and arrested one person involved in its illicit trafficking under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.
According to an official release, besides this seizure, DRI has carried out a series of operations at various airports, railway stations, courier terminals, and highways in Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, Patna, Cochin, and Ahmedabad, and has cumulatively seized approximately 26 kg of cocaine since last month. During these operations, 22 persons, including 14 foreign nationals, were arrested.
The contraband was trafficked through various modus operandi such as ingestion (swallowing drug-filled capsules or pellets for internal concealment within the body), concealment in household and edible items, soaking them in fabrics, concealment in baggage, etc.
Through coordinated operations, DRI has consistently targeted organised syndicates engaged in the trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, contributing to the Government of India's vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat (Drug-free India).
Every year, June 26 is observed as the International Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Established by the United Nations in 1987, this day is dedicated internationally to strengthening global action, raising awareness about the devastating impacts of substance abuse, and combating the illegal drug trade.
This comes as Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday asked states to adopt a "detect, deduct and destroy" strategy against drug trafficking networks, calling for a ruthless crackdown on cartels and kingpins while advocating a compassionate approach towards victims of addiction.
Addressing the 10th Apex-Level Meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD), Shah stressed that the next three years would be decisive in India's fight against narcotics and urged states to strengthen coordination, real-time intelligence sharing and enforcement against drug syndicates.
"Today, our country stands at such a delicate juncture in the battle against narcotics that the coming three years will determine whether addiction conquers us or we conquer addiction. For the future of our nation over the next 100 years, we must collectively fight this with unwavering resolve. For this, all governments must come together on a single platform. We must also include saints who guide the public, youth who shape the future, and the power of motherhood," Shah said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting that foreign nationals are involved—14 out of 22 arrested. This isn't just a domestic problem, it's international. Glad the DRI is watching airports and courier terminals. But I wonder how much more slips through. The swallowing capsules method sounds terrifying.
Honestly, while seizure numbers are impressive, I'm concerned about the addiction side. Amit Shah mentioned including saints and mothers in the fight—that's good but we need more rehabilitation centers and mental health support. Punishing dealers is necessary, but treating addicts as victims is equally important. Drug abuse destroys families, not just individuals.
Respect to the DRI officers risking their lives. Cocaine is a massive market—2 kg in Surat alone shows even smaller cities are targets now. The 'detect, deduct and destroy' strategy sounds aggressive, which is what we need. But I hope the focus stays on dismantling syndicates and not just making arrests for show.
People think drug abuse is only a problem in big cities, but Surat being a hub shows otherwise. The DRI seizing drugs at railways, airports, and highways means no place is safe from traffickers. I appreciate Amit Shah's call for a "ruthless crackdown on cartels." But we also need to educate youth—prevention is better than cure. 🚫💊
A small but sharp operation. Every kilo off the streets is a victory. But the real test is whether this leads to bigger busts. The mention of 14 foreign nationals suggests this is part of a global chain
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