CHENNAI: Customs Air Intelligence System authorities in Chennai took pseudoephedrine powder worth over USD 54,000 or Rs 40 lakhs. The contraband was concealed in carrier parcels bound for Australia by means of carrier. The officials got intelligence inputs after which they took the suspicious parcels into their custody and analyzed it.
The first parcel included Lumbo-sacral orthotic belt (used for neck and back pain and associated conditions) and the other consisted of prizes, both of which were discovered to be uncommonly heavy. Authorities cut open the box and recuperated three plastic pouches with white crystalline powder inside. In all, the 3 pouches were bring 24 smaller sized pouches that had about 2 kg of the powder.
In the 2nd consignment, on opening the wooden base of the trophies, a plastic pouch containing 1 kg of white crystalline powder was found concealed inside each of them. A total of 2 kg of white crystalline powder was recuperated from both trophies. Overall 4 kg pseudoephedrine valued at Rs 40 lakhs was recuperated and taken under the NDPS Act, 1985.
The white crystalline powder tested favorable for Pseudoephedrine, a controlled substance covered under NDPS Act, 1985.
Pseudoephedrine is utilized for the temporary relief of nasal blockage and sinus pain/pressure caused by an infection such as clod/flu or other breathing diseases. It works by narrowing the blood vessels to reduce swelling and congestion. It is likewise stated to be used in higher dosages to prevent drowsiness and increase the state of awareness.
Pseudoephedrine is an in-demand chemical precursor in the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine, frequently known as Meth.
In low to moderate doses, methamphetamine can elevate mood, increase alertness, concentration and energy in fatigued individuals, decrease appetite, and promote weight reduction.
” This is a brand-new modus operandi of concealment and is difficult to spot, these smugglers are finding newer methods to slip the contraband out of the country. Our last seizure of this drug was back in February this year. We have actually been maintaining vigil”, Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner of Customs, told WION.
Drugs worth Rs 40 lakh hidden in orthotic belts, prizes bound for Australia, took in Chennai
