In a major breakthrough, Customs officers at CSMI Airport, Mumbai, have successfully foiled a sophisticated gold smuggling operation, seizing over 10.9 kilograms of 24KT gold dust in wax, valued at approximately Rs. 8.47 crore. The contraband was discovered through a series of operations conducted between 13th and 15th March 2025, with multiple airport staff members implicated in the smuggling attempts.
The first significant interception took place when Customs officers, acting on suspicion, stopped an airport private staff member who was attempting to smuggle gold dust concealed in the pockets of his pants. The recovery amounted to 2.8 kg of gold dust, worth around Rs. 2.28 crore. The individual was arrested under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
In a similar operation, another airport staff member was caught smuggling gold dust hidden inside his undergarments. Customs officers discovered seven capsules filled with 24KT gold dust in wax, totaling 2.9 kg, with a value of Rs. 2.36 crore. This individual was also arrested under the same legal provisions.
On the night of 15th March, Customs officers intercepted a third private airport staff member who was attempting to smuggle 1.61 kg of gold dust concealed in his undergarments. The value of the seized gold stood at Rs. 1.31 crore. Further investigation led to the arrest of three individuals connected to this operation, including the airport staff member.
In another unexpected turn, Customs officers conducted a search of garbage bags from an international flight and found two black pouches filled with gold dust hidden among the trash from the aircraft’s lavatories and pantry. The total weight of the gold seized was 3.12 kg, valued at Rs. 2.53 crore.
All the seized gold was found to be in the form of 24KT gold dust encased in wax, and the total gross weight of the confiscated items was 10.923 kg. These operations represent a significant success in curbing smuggling activities at one of India’s busiest airports, sending a strong message to smugglers that the Customs department remains vigilant and committed to tackling illicit trade.
The contraband from all four cases has been seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities have assured that they will continue to strengthen their operations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
