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Chennai: Customs seize drugs worth Rs 30 lakh from masala packets, 4 arrested

On examination, branded masala packets weighing 50 and100 grams were found among other grocery items. Closer inspection revealed that the chilli powder and sambhar powder packets were tampered with.

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In a case that bears resemblance to a popular Tamil film, Customs officials have seized 3 kg of narcotic substance pseudoephedrine valued at Rs 30 lakh from a courier that contained branded masala packets, destined for Australia. The contraband was recovered and seized under NDPS Act, 1985 and four persons were arrested. 

Based on intelligence, Customs officials had intercepted a courier which was declared to contain spice powders etc. On examination, branded masala packets weighing 50 and100 grams were found among other grocery items. Closer inspection revealed that the chilli powder and sambhar powder packets were tampered with. 

On opening the packets, plastic pouches containing white crystalline powder were found concealed inside. A total of 37 plastic pouches were recovered from inside the spice packets. The powder tested positive for Pseudoephedrine. As medicine, Pseudoephedrine works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passage and is used to relieve nasal congestion caused by cold, allergies. However, it can also be used as an ingredient in the manufacture of methamphetamines.

The consignor of the parcel was a person based out of Theni district in Tamil Nadu and the parcel was destined for Auburn, New South Wales, Australia. However, searches and investigation by officials revealed that Sathik, 37, a Chennai resident was the mastermind and the consignor address was misused. 

According to officials, on receiving the order for the contraband from an Australia-based buyer, Sathik purchased the powder from a Bengaluru-based person and handed it over to his associate. It was with the help of a Chennai-resident, Khan, that this associate packed and concealed the drugs in the spice powder packets. 

Finally, Antony, a Pudukottai-resident, arrived in Chennai, received the parcel from Khan and booked the courier for Australia. Instead of using his own documents to book the courier, Antony had misused a Theni-based friend’s Aadhar card. 

The four individuals involved in this smuggling activity have been arrested. Further investigation is in progress. 

 

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