DRI Busts Cocaine Smuggling Operation, Seizes 21.78 Crore Worth in Dates at Mumbai Airport

Mumbai’s DRI intercepted 2.178 kg of cocaine concealed within date fruit imports, valued at around 21.78 crore. Two suspects, including a passenger from Sierra Leone, have been arrested.

Mumbai|October 9, 2025: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) carried out a major drug bust at Mumbai International Airport today, seizing cocaine worth an estimated 21.78 crore. The contraband — 2.178 kilograms of white powder — was cleverly hidden inside date fruits.

Investigators say traffickers removed the date seeds and replaced them with the narcotic in a meticulous operation. The packaging was designed to bypass security checks and mimic legitimate fruit consignments.

Two individuals are now in custody. One is a passenger who arrived from Sierra Leone, and the other is believed to have been awaiting the delivery at the airport. Both are booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Officials described the method used as “highly sophisticated,” warning that similar tactics could make food and agricultural imports an increasing route for illegal drugs. The DRI claims this bust foils efforts to use Mumbai as a transit hub for international cocaine smugglers.

Sources within the DRI say further investigation is on to trace the smuggling network’s connections, financial backers, and future routes. Meanwhile, customs and security agencies are being urged to tighten inspections, especially of food consignments and other low-suspicion goods.

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