Mumbai Airport Customs Officials Destroy Drugs Worth ₹297 Crore
The Mumbai Airport Customs department recently took a significant step in combating the illegal drug trade by destroying a substantial quantity of narcotic drugs. The operation involved the destruction of 43.899 kilograms of narcotics, comprising 31.375 kilograms of heroin and 12.524 kilograms of cocaine. The estimated value of the destroyed drugs is reported to be ₹297.26 crore.
This follows a similar initiative by the Airport Special Cargo (APSC) Commissionerate of Mumbai Customs the previous month. In that operation, 28 kilograms of various narcotic substances, including ganja, cocaine, charas, tramadol, and ephedrine, were destroyed. The total value of the narcotics destroyed in that operation was approximately ₹2.16 crore.
The destruction process took place at the Taloja facility, which is authorized by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board for such operations. These efforts by the Mumbai Airport Customs department underscore their commitment to curbing the illegal drug trade, ensuring the safe disposal of confiscated narcotics, and contributing to the broader efforts to maintain public safety and combat the narcotics trade in the region.
“The confiscated drugs undergo a meticulous destruction process through incineration, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Hazardous & Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules. This process occurs at the Common Hazardous Waste Treatment Storage & Disposal Facility in Taloja. Following their seizure, the drugs are initially stored in government maalkhaanas or warehouses.
The National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has identified that certain seized drugs have a high potential for abuse and may pose significant health risks. Consequently, disposal procedures are clearly outlined in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This involves the presence of independent panch witnesses, and under police escort, the drugs are transported to the designated facility for destruction.
Prior to initiating the destruction process, necessary permissions are obtained from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The drugs are then subjected to incineration in a specialized incinerator. It is essential to note that this destruction process is carefully conducted to ensure that it does not result in any pollution. The adherence to established protocols and environmentally responsible practices reflects the commitment of the authorities to both law enforcement and environmental preservation.”
“The Government of India has issued directives emphasizing the imperative of expeditious disposal of seized drugs. This directive aims to minimize the risk of pilferage, theft, and loss associated with the storage of confiscated substances. Recognizing the potential dangers and societal consequences posed by retained narcotics, the emphasis on swift disposal aligns with the broader goal of effective law enforcement and public safety.
“On October 12, Mumbai Airport Customs demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the directive issued by the Government of India by undertaking a comprehensive operation for the destruction of a significant quantity of confiscated items. This operation specifically targeted the disposal of 3,700 kilograms of confiscated cigarettes, constituting approximately 25 lakh sticks, alongside e-cigarettes. The collective value of the destroyed items was estimated at ₹2.80 crore.
The disposal process mirrored the established protocols observed for narcotics and took place at the Taloja facility, in strict adherence to the guidelines set by regulatory authorities. The swift and systematic disposal of these seized items serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it aligns with governmental directives, emphasizing the necessity of prompt disposal to mitigate the risks of pilferage, theft, and loss associated with the storage of confiscated goods.
Secondly, the expeditious disposal plays a crucial role in preventing the illicit circulation of these substances in the market. By swiftly removing confiscated cigarettes and e-cigarettes from circulation, authorities actively contribute to maintaining public safety and curbing illegal activities. This approach underscores the dedication of Mumbai Airport Customs to both law enforcement imperatives and the broader goal of safeguarding the well-being of the public.”
