Bhubaneswar, Dec 30: In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, officials of the Customs Department on Tuesday seized a huge quantity of marijuana worth approximately Rs 4 crore at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. The seizure was made during routine security checks, marking a significant breakthrough in efforts to curb the movement of narcotics through air routes.

According to official sources, the contraband was detected in the baggage of a passenger who was attempting to clear the airport. Acting on confidential inputs regarding possible narcotics smuggling, Customs officials intensified surveillance and screening procedures, which led to the interception of the illicit substance. On examination, the baggage was found to contain a large quantity of marijuana, later estimated to be worth around Rs 4 crore in the illegal market.

The passenger was immediately detained by Customs authorities for questioning. However, officials have not yet disclosed the identity of the detained individual. Preliminary inquiries are underway to determine whether the accused was acting alone or as part of a larger drug trafficking network.

Authorities have also launched a detailed investigation to trace the source of the seized narcotics and identify possible links to interstate or international smuggling syndicates. Further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

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