17 January,2024 11:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Faizan Khan
Gold seized from the accused/ DRI
Officers from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Mumbai Zonal Unit seized gold worth over Rs 2 crore at Mumbai airport. They arrested two travellers arriving from Jeddah at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Based on specific intelligence, the passengers were searched, exposing 1 kg of gold dust in wax sewn into their innerwear.
"Based on the specific intelligence received, the officers of DRI, Mumbai Zonal Unit, intercepted two passengers who arrived at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai from Jeddah on 16.01.2024. The passengers were searched and 1 Kg Gold dust in wax form, which was specially stitched in the innerwear of both passengers was seized from each of them," the statement from DRI read.
A further examination during a luggage search revealed three unusually heavy mixer grinders. Upon inspection, gold chunks weighing approximately 2 kg were discovered secreted within the grinders. In total, 4 kg of smuggled gold worth Rs 2.59 crore was recovered.
The DRI operation expanded beyond the passengers, as it was determined that two others were waiting for the gold outside the airport. Authorities created a trap, captured the recipients, and both admitted to their roles. The two passengers and the receivers are now facing charges under the Customs Act of 1962, the sleuths further stated in their media statement.
The statement read, "Further during baggage search of the intercepted persons, officers examined the 3 mixer grinders carried by them as they appeared to be heavier than usual. On cutting the part open, it was found that Gold pieces of appx 2 Kgs were concealed therein. Thus total of 4 Kgs of smuggled gold worth Rs. 2.59 Cr was recovered. Subsequently, it was found out that two persons were coming to receive the gold from the passengers outside the airport. Accordingly, the officers planned a trap and intercepted the intended receivers. These persons admitted to their offence. The two passengers and both receivers have been arrested under relevant provisions of Customs Act 1962."
The operation is a manifestation of DRI's resolve to dismantle the burgeoning syndicates involved in the smuggling of gold, the DRI further stated in its statement.
