Cochin customs authorities recently made an arrest in an operation that aimed to seize 954.70 grammes of gold, valued at an estimated Rs5.2 million. The smuggler was captured.
Smuggler Caught with Gold Concealed Inside Body in Cochin Customs
The gold, concealed inside the individual's body, was discovered during a routine check by officers from the Cochin Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU).
The interception took place when a passenger arriving from Abu Dhabi on Air Arabia flight no. 3L127 was subjected to scrutiny at the green channel. Acting on the basis of profiling, the AIU officers decided to examine the passenger more closely.
They found four capsule-shaped packages holding 954.70 grammes of gold complex, totaling 954 grammes, cleverly concealed within the individual's body, thus their decision paid off.
The officials promptly seized the concealed gold and initiated further investigation into the matter. The passenger, now identified as a smuggler, is likely to face legal consequences for attempting to transport a significant amount of gold through covert means.
Previous Gold Seizure at Indira Gandhi International Airport
This incident follows a similar occurrence on November 22, where customs officials at the Indira Gandhi International Airport seized a substantial amount of gold. In that case, the authorities acted on profiling measures and discovered 3,735 grammes of gold valued at Rs 99 crore. Three foreign nationals traveling from Dubai brought the gold into the country.
The passengers responsible for the attempted gold smuggling were promptly arrested under the Customs Act, 1962. These events highlight the persistent efforts of customs authorities in curbing illegal activities related to gold smuggling, employing a combination of profiling, intelligence, and thorough examination techniques to ensure the security and integrity of border control measures.
As investigations into both cases are ongoing, the customs authorities continue to enhance their strategies and vigilance to combat illicit activities involving precious metals.
