- DRI cracks high-value smuggling syndicate after seizing 1.3 kg of 24k gold from passenger
- Airline security staff among four arrested; network linked to ₹16-crore cross-border operations
NE NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD, NOV 22
In a major enforcement breakthrough, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has unearthed a sophisticated gold smuggling syndicate operating through Ahmedabad, following the seizure of nearly 1.3 kg of 24K gold from an inbound passenger at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
On November 14, 2025, DRI officials intercepted a passenger arriving from Jeddah and recovered 1,246.48 grams of gold worth ₹1.62 crore, ingeniously packed into four white-taped capsules hidden inside the life jacket pouch beneath an aircraft seat.
Subsequent investigation revealed the existence of a well-organised network led by a café owner in Ahmedabad, who also claims to be a Ph.D. holder. He allegedly served as the key coordinator—recruiting carriers, fixing routes, and managing the operational flow of illicit consignments.
In a startling revelation, two employees of a reputed airline—a Senior Executive (Security) and an Assistant Manager (Security)—were found complicit in facilitating the smuggling activities. Digital evidence, along with corroborative statements, indicates that the group may have successfully smuggled gold worth approximately ₹16 crore in over 10 previous instances over the last two months, in collaboration with handlers based abroad.
All four individuals have been arrested under relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
The DRI termed the operation a significant step in dismantling organised smuggling cartels and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting India’s economic security by curbing illicit trade networks.
