DRI seizes 11 gold bars worth Rs 1.55 cr at RGI Airport

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in India intercepted a gold smuggling operation at Rajiv Gandhi International (RGI) Airport in Hyderabad, seizing 11 gold bars weighing 1196.20 grams, valued at Rs 1.55 crore. The passenger, arriving from Sharjah, was found to have concealed the gold bars within an iron box in his baggage after crossing the green channel. DRI officials discovered the concealed gold during an examination of the passenger's belongings.

Acting on the passenger's confession, DRI officers apprehended his associate, based in Andhra Pradesh, at Proddatur, YSR District. The swift coordinated action between the airport and regional units highlights the DRI's vigilance in combating smuggling activities. The arrest of both individuals underscores the network involved in the attempted smuggling operation.

The seized gold bars are now subject to investigation under Section 110 of the Customs Act, 1962. The DRI is conducting further investigations to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network and its operations. This seizure reflects ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to curb illegal gold imports and protect the country's economic interests.

The incident highlights the challenges faced by customs and security agencies in preventing smuggling through airports, particularly from regions known for gold trading. Enhanced screening measures and intelligence gathering are crucial to deter such activities and maintain the integrity of airport operations.