DRI Crackdown on Drug Trafficking: 5.75 kg of Crystal Meth Seized from Train Passenger

The Mangaluru Regional Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has carried out a major operation against drug trafficking. During a special operation conducted on October 8 and 9, 2026, based on intelligence inputs, the DRI intercepted an Indian national traveling by train from Delhi to Bengaluru.

During the search, three packets were recovered from the passenger's trolley bag, containing a total of 5.753 kilograms of a white crystalline substance. Initial investigations suggest that the substance is methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth. The narcotic substance has been seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The accused has been arrested and remanded to judicial custody by a competent NDPS court.

Methamphetamine, also referred to as 'crystal meth' or 'ice', is a powerful synthetic stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Its addiction poses a severe threat to both physical and mental health.

Under the NDPS Act, 1985, the unauthorized manufacture, sale, transport, import, or export of this substance is a punishable offense in India. The quantity of 5.753 kilograms seized in this case is significantly higher than the prescribed commercial quantity of 50 grams. Consequently, the accused may face rigorous imprisonment ranging from 10 to 20 years and a fine between ₹1 lakh and ₹2 lakh.