LUCKNOW: Two alleged drug couriers from Indore, posing as a couple, were arrested at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi on Friday evening after authorities recovered around 20 kg of hydroponic weed from their luggage.The accused were identified as Shehanaj Hussain, 37, a resident of Bank Chandan Nagar in Indore, and Yusoof, 40, a resident of Marothiya Bazar, Sarafa Saifi Mohalla in Indore.According to officials, the two arrived at Varanasi airport on Air India Express flight IX 215 from Bangkok. During immigration checks, on duty officer became suspicious after analysing their travel history and questioning them about their relationship.Investigators found that Yusoof had departed for Bangkok on May 21, while Shehanaj had travelled separately on May 20 through Mumbai and Delhi. During initial questioning, the two claimed they were engaged. However, officials said their responses were inconsistent, raising suspicion.During detailed interrogation, the passengers allegedly admitted that two bags had been handed over to them in Bangkok by an unidentified person for transport to India.The passengers were then handed over to the Air Intelligence Unit of Customs for further examination. Upon opening the bags, authorities found hydroponic weed packed in 22 packets. Officials said 20 packets weighed around 550 grams each, while two larger packets weighed around 5.5 kg each, taking the total seizure to nearly 20 kg including packaging.Officials estimated the value of the seized contraband at around Rs 20 crore based on previous cases involving hydroponic cannabis.Further investigation is underway to trace the source and intended recipients of the consignment.
