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The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) registered 109 cases in 2023-24, seizing 8,223.61kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances worth Rs 2,241 crore. Cocaine smuggling through air passenger routes increased from 21 cases in 2022-23 to 47 in 2023-24, with most seizures at airports, officials said.
“In recent years, India has witnessed a marked increase in the availability and use of narcotic substances. This includes traditional drugs like cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and opium, as well as synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine, MDMA, and New Psychoactive Substances (NPS),” stated a DRI report.
“India faces challenges with trafficking of drugs due to proximity to opium-growing regions and clandestine labs. Cannabis cultivation in remote areas continues, along with the emergence of hydroponic weed and hashish. Synthetic drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl are smuggled from the northeastern borders or manufactured illegally within the country,” the report added.
The report also noted the illicit export of pharmaceutical drugs. “Cocaine smuggling has increased, mainly from South America via African and Middle Eastern routes. Drug trafficking through air and maritime routes, including concealment in containers, luggage, and parcels, is common,” it stated.
A DRI official said, “The Darknet has become a key platform for drug transactions, using tools like Tor and cryptocurrencies. Trafficking via couriers and air routes, especially from Africa and the Middle East, is rising, targeting Indian cities.”
The report further highlighted evolving trafficking trends. “During 2022-23 and 2023-24, major seizures of heroin and cocaine involved Indian mules travelling to Africa and returning to India. Smuggling through neighbouring countries like Myanmar, Kathmandu, and Dhaka has also been detected. National and international coordination has led to successful interceptions,” it stated.
Key details
Seizures in 2023-24
109 cases registered
8,223.61kg of drugs seized
Total worth: ₹2,241 crore
Cocaine smuggling surge
Cases rose from 21 (2022-23) to 47 (2023-24)
Major seizures at airports
Types of drugs seized
Cocaine, heroin, cannabis, opium.
Methamphetamine, MDMA, New Psychoactive Substances (NPS)
Trafficking routes
Cocaine: South America via Africa & Middle East
Heroin: Through opium-producing regions
Synthetic drugs: Northeastern borders
Modes of smuggling
Air: Luggage, courier packages, mules
Maritime: Containers, fishing vessels
