The Ludhiana Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized a parcel containing 735 grams of opium, allegedly being smuggled from Punjab to the United States. Acting on specific intelligence, the officers seized the contraband at the DHL Express facility in Dhandari Kalan.
According to DRI officials, the parcel, booked from Ferozepur, was declared as household and food items. However, DRI officials suspected it contained concealed narcotics in violation of the NDPS Act, 1985. A detailed examination revealed four packets of opium, each wrapped in carbon paper and transparent tape, hidden inside a quilt with a small opening created for concealment.
Investigators said the smugglers had attempted to use standard cargo channels to transport the consignment to California.
The seized opium, estimated to be around ₹10.3 lakh in the illicit market, has been confiscated under the NDPS Act.
DRI officials said further investigations are ongoing to identify the individuals involved and dismantle the broader smuggling network behind the operation.