A Bollywood supporting actor, who appeared in the film Student of the Year, was apprehended at Chennai Airport on Sunday after authorities discovered 3.5 kg of cocaine, estimated to be worth ₹35 crore (Rs 350 million) in the international market, concealed in his luggage.

The actor, whose name has been withheld by investigating agencies, arrived from Singapore when he was stopped by air intelligence officials. During a search of his checked luggage, customs officials discovered plastic pouches containing a white powdery substance hidden in a false compartment at the bottom of his trolley bag. A field test confirmed the substance to be cocaine. The joint operation was conducted by Chennai Customs and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).

During interrogation, the actor claimed that he received the trolley in Cambodia from unknown individuals and was instructed to hand it over to a receiver at Chennai Airport. However, officials suspect that he intended to transport the drugs further to cities like Mumbai or Delhi, where organized drug networks operate. Customs authorities are currently examining his travel history to determine if he has been involved in previous drug smuggling activities, while the DRI continues to investigate the larger network behind the operation.

This is the second seizure of cocaine by the DRI at Chennai Airport in the past two weeks. On September 16, a Kenyan national was arrested with 2 kg of cocaine upon arrival from Ethiopia. Earlier this month, on September 1, Chennai Customs seized 5.6 kg of cocaine concealed inside Ferrero Rocher chocolate cans and arrested two passengers who arrived from Ethiopia. These recent busts highlight the vigilance of airport officials and the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.