The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) through a statement issued today, 8th October 2022, has stated that it  has seized cocaine worth over ₹502 crore which was being imported from South Africa.

Based on specific intelligence developed by DRI Mumbai Zonal Unit, a container carrying pears and green apples, being imported from South Africa, was intercepted at Nhava Sheva port on 6th Oct 2022. Upon examination, it was revealed that a large number of bricks made up of high-quality cocaine and weighing approximately 1 kg each, were concealed inside the boxes of green apples. Total 50 such bricks weighing 50.23 kg and valued at Rs 502 crore in illicit market were recovered during the examination.

This cocaine was getting imported in the name of same importer who was earlier arrested by DRI in a case in Vashi involving seizure of 198 kg meth and 9 Kg cocaine from a consignment of oranges originating from South Africa. This is one of the largest seizures of cocaine attempted to be smuggled through sea containers in recent past.

The importer has been arrested under the provisions of NDPS Act, 1985. This is a part of series of large drugs seizures made by DRI, Mumbai Zonal Unit ranging from 198 kg of methamphetamine and 9kg cocaine to 16 Kg heroine in last 10 days.

Source : DRI

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