Srinagar: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has uncovered a gold smuggling syndicate operating through the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, following the seizure of nearly 1.3 kg of 24-carat gold from a passenger arriving from Jeddah on November 14.
Officials recovered 1,246.48 grams of gold worth ₹1.62 crore, concealed in four capsules hidden inside the life jacket pouch beneath a passenger seat. The discovery triggered a wider investigation that exposed an organised network operating with insider support.
According to DRI, a man who runs a café in Ahmedabad and claims to hold a PhD was identified as the key coordinator of the operation. He allegedly recruited carriers and oversaw logistics for the smuggling attempts.
In a significant twist, two staff members of a reputed airline — a Senior Executive (Security) and an Assistant Manager (Security) — were found to be facilitating the racket. Investigators believe the syndicate had smuggled over ₹16 crore worth of gold in at least 10 similar cases over the last two months.
Digital evidence and statements gathered during the probe indicate that the arrested individuals were working closely with accomplices based abroad. All four have been arrested under provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
DRI officials said the operation highlights the agency’s commitment to cracking down on organised smuggling networks that rely on insider assistance and sophisticated concealment methods.
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