SAN FRANCISCO — Diane Bahlawan, a 34-year-old woman from California, was arrested on May 6 at San Francisco International Airport after authorities discovered she was attempting to smuggle 151 pounds of cannabis onto an international flight bound for Frankfurt, Germany.
The Discovery at the Airport
Bahlawan was stopped by airport security after her four roller bags were flagged for appearing unusually heavy. Upon inspection, authorities uncovered 131 vacuum-sealed bags filled with cannabis. Along with the drugs, investigators also seized Bahlawan’s cellphone, boarding pass, and $960 in cash.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Bahlawan has been charged with burglary and unlawful transport of marijuana. After her arrest, she posted bail and was released from custody. Her initial court arraignment is scheduled for June 2, 2025.
San Mateo County District Attorney Stephen Wagstaffe commented on the case, stating that it is uncommon for his office to handle a marijuana transport case involving such a large quantity. “We usually get smaller cases, with the larger ones handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” Wagstaffe told Fox News Digital. “But we are glad to prosecute whatever the Federal authorities leave for us.”
Ongoing Investigation
Further details of the case will be released after Bahlawan’s court appearance, according to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.
This case is not an isolated incident. In February, a 25-year-old Australian woman was arrested at San Francisco International Airport after being caught with 44 pounds of methamphetamine. Additionally, in April, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized roughly 150,000 cigarettes from a couple returning from Ensenada, Mexico at the Long Beach Cruise Ship Terminal.
Challenges at the Airport
San Francisco International Airport has been a key location for authorities to combat international smuggling. These high-profile cases serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by customs and border officials in intercepting illegal contraband from travelers attempting to board flights or enter the country.
Source Attribution:
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Fox News Digital
- KTVU Local News