Based on intelligence, officers of Chennai Air Cargo Customs intercepted an export consignment suspected to contain narcotic drugs at Air Cargo Export Shed, which was destined forDoha(Qatar).

In the shipping bill 7 packages containing 55 weighing machines were declared. All the packages were opened and examined. On openingthe packagesDigital weighing scales were found inside. On lifting, the weighing scale appeared to be unusually heavy. All the weighing machines were opened with screw driver and it was found that there was concealment in 52 machines. It was noticed that there was a specially designed metal box fixed by tape to the bottom of scale. On opening the box two pieces of dark brown material in cake form  wrapped with  plastic strips and sheets found concealed inside. The material tested positive for Hashish. Total 44 kg of Hashish valued at Rs 4.4 crore was recovered from 44 machines. 700 grams of Methaphetamine crystals valued at Rs. 70 lakhs were recovered from two machines. Both Hashish and Meth crystals valued at Rs. 5.1 crore were seized under NDPS Act.

1620 grams of Pregabalin capsules a prescription drug used in anxiety disorder and fibromylgia were recovered from 6 machines and seized.This drug does not fall in controlled drug list in India but abroad in many countries it is a controlled drug.

The Exporter M/s SreeAalaya was sending this consignment to Doha(Qatar). Searches were carried out and the exporter has been arrested. One staff of the Custom house agent has also been arrested.  

Further investigation is in progress.

This stated press release issued by Commissioner of Customs,                                                                                   Chennai Air Cargo

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