New Delhi: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Thursday seized 5.48 kg of heroin worth approximately Rs. 38.36 crore in the international market from the integrated check point at Attari, Amritsar. The seizure resulted from a novel heroin smuggling method via the India-Pakistan land border.
The Ministry of Finance reported that the heroin was concealed within a shipment of 4,000 brooms, stored in 40 bags. DRI officers intercepted the consignment following specific intelligence and further profiling. The heroin was discreetly placed in 442 hollow short sticks of river cane or bamboo in three bags, with the ends artificially sealed. These sticks were then hidden inside “Afghan Brooms” and secured with iron wire on the exterior.
The cargo consignment was imported by an Afghan national using fake Indian identification documents, in collaboration with his Indian national wife. The Afghan national was previously out on bail in a 2018 narcotics case filed by the Delhi Police. Both individuals have been arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985, according to the ministry.
Ongoing investigations and follow-up actions aim to uncover the entire conspiracy, smuggling module, and gather further evidence, the ministry added.
Source: livemint