Woman Arrested at SFO For Allegedly Trying to Board Flight With 151 Pounds of Marijuana

Diane Bahlawan, a 34-year-old woman from Glendale, was arrested at San Francisco International Airport for attempting to transport 151 pounds of cannabis aboard a flight to Frankfurt. Security personnel flagged her luggage due to its excessive weight, prompting a search that revealed 131 vacuum-sealed bags of marijuana. The arrest took place on May 6, and authorities seized her boarding pass, smartphone, and $960 in cash. Bahlawan has been charged with unlawful transport of marijuana and burglary and posted bail shortly after her arrest. She is scheduled for a court appearance on June 2.

Despite the legalization of recreational cannabis in California over six years ago, illegal marijuana smuggling persists, especially to states and countries where it remains prohibited. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing illegal drug transport. The case also raises concerns about potential theft by baggage handlers at airports.