By Mewati Sitaram
The relentless efforts of Mumbai Customs Zone-III have significantly thwarted smuggling activities, ensuring the security and integrity of one of India’s busiest airports.
In May 2024 Mumbai airport customs conducted a series of high-profile operations. It resulted in seizure of over 55 kg of gold and electronics, collectively valued at Rs. 36.86 crore. From May 10th to 12th, customs intercepted over 22.14 kg of gold worth Rs. 13.56 crore in 20 cases, with gold concealed in innovative ways such as undergarments, brassieres, jackets, burqa pockets, cardboard, rectums, and on passengers’ bodies. 18 individuals were arrested, including 3 foreigners. Additionally, 21 Indian nationals were apprehended carrying out smuggling activities.
From May 13th to 16th, another 11.39 kg of gold and cigarettes worth Rs. 7.16 crore were seized in 27 cases. Among those intercepted were a foreigner from Malaysia carrying crude gold jewellery, 2 Indians from Jeddah and 2 foreigners from Nairobi with gold melted bars. 22 Indians were also apprehended with concealed gold and cigarettes.
Between May 17th and 22nd, 11.40 kg of gold and electronics valued at Rs. 7.46 crore were seized in 24 cases with 2 arrests. This included two Indians from Dubai with gold dust and 2 foreigners from Nairobi and Abu Dhabi with gold hidden in their rectums and dresses. An Indian from Sharjah was found with various iPhones and laptops. 17 Indians from Dubai, Bangkok, Sharjah, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Addis Ababa, and Doha were found with concealed gold, and an aircraft rummage uncovered gold dust in wax and gold bars.
From May 23rd to 26th, customs seized over 10.60 kg of gold and electronics valued at Rs. 8.68 crore, and foreign currency worth Rs. 0.17 crore across 31 cases, with 3 arrests. Those apprehended included an airport staffer with gold dust in wax concealed in shoes, 2 Indians from Bahrain and Male with gold dust in wax hidden in rectums, 5 foreigners with gold hidden in rectums, jeans pockets, and on their bodies, and 14 Indians concealed gold in an electric iron, trolleys, and undergarments. 8 Indians from Dubai were also found with high-value mobile phones, laptops, and Goree Beauty Cream. One Indian traveling to Doha was intercepted with concealed foreign currency.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
