Two Brazilian nationals were arrested on July 11, 2025, after they landed at Cochin International Airport from São Paulo via Dubai.
Acting on Precise Intelligence
The operation was conducted by the DRI Cochin Zonal Unit. Officers, acting on specific intelligence, intercepted the duo immediately after their arrival.
Upon detailed examination and medical investigation, it was discovered that they had ingested 163 cocaine-filled capsules, weighing a total of 1671.64 grams.
Officials confirmed the street value of the seized contraband is approximately ₹17 crore in the international illegal market.
Due to the life-threatening nature of the smuggling method, the two individuals were immediately taken to a hospital.
Under strict medical supervision, all capsules were safely recovered. Medical intervention ensured that the suspects were unharmed, despite the dangerous ingestion technique.
Legal Action and Judicial Custody
Following the recovery, both individuals were arrested under the NDPS Act (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act).
They have since been remanded to judicial custody and are expected to face rigorous prosecution under Indian law.
Wider Network Under Investigation
According to the official PIB press release, investigations are ongoing to uncover the broader smuggling network involved in the operation.
The DRI is working to trace the origin of the narcotics in Brazil and identify potential handlers or syndicate links in Dubai and India.
Kerala’s Growing Narcotics Challenge
This case marks the second major bust this financial year by the DRI Cochin Zonal Unit. Officials have seized over ₹29 crore worth of narcotics, including cocaine and hydroponic weed, in Kerala alone.
So far, four individuals have been arrested in connection with these operations, pointing to an alarming trend of international drug routes passing through Kerala’s airports.
Smuggling Method Highlights High Risk
The method used by the smugglers—ingestion of drug capsules—is both dangerous and difficult to detect.
This incident underlines the sophistication of narcotics networks and the growing use of human couriers or “mules.”
Without timely intelligence, such concealment techniques can easily bypass traditional security checks.
DRI’s Continued Vigilance and Global Cooperation
The DRI’s continued crackdown reflects its increasing vigilance and international coordination.
Working closely with global customs and enforcement agencies, Indian authorities are targeting every link in the drug trafficking chain—from source to transit to destination.
India’s strategic location makes it a vulnerable transit point, but agencies like the DRI are strengthening national borders against such threats.
Public Awareness and National Security
Drug trafficking is not just a law enforcement issue—it’s a national security concern.
The illegal drug trade funds crime, endangers youth, and undermines communities. Busts like these help save lives and send a strong message to global cartels.
What Lies Ahead?
With more such attempts expected, the DRI and other enforcement agencies will likely tighten surveillance across all international airports.
The Cochin case is a reminder of the human cost of the drug trade—not just for consumers but for those coerced into trafficking roles.
India’s fight against narcotics needs support at every level—law, intelligence, community, and awareness.