The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Visakhapatnam, arrested a 36-year-old man from Kolkata and seized around 4 kg of hydroponic ganja, estimated to be worth ₹3 crore to ₹4 crore, at Alluri Sitharama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Vizianagaram district.This is the first seizure of narcotic substances at the airport since it began operations, officials said.The accused, Mohammed Imran Khan, had allegedly procured the contraband in Bangkok and transported it via Singapore before arriving at the airport, according to sources in the Vizianagaram district police.Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials intercepted him on arrival and seized the suspected narcotic substance from packets concealed in his suitcase. He was subsequently taken into custody for questioning.Hydroponic ganja is cannabis cultivated without soil in a controlled environment, using water and nutrient solutions.
It is often associated with indoor cultivation and commands a higher price in illicit markets than conventionally grown ganja, police officials said.Further details are awaited. Published - October 25, 2026 08:17 pm IST