The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) Hyderabad Zonal Unit intercepted a passenger who had travelled from Kuwait via Sharjah and apprehended him at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Shamshabad. He was found to be carrying 1,798 grams of gold, valued at ₹2.37 crore (Indian Rupees).

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers examined the passenger’s checked-in baggage and uncovered five 24-karat gold bars and two separate cut-pieces of gold bars. The concealment was intricate:

• The five gold bars were hidden inside the metallic lock of a door.

• The two gold bar cut pieces were found concealed inside a plastic pouch that held sunflower seeds.

The seizure of gold of foreign origin, along with the packing material, was formalised under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. The passenger was placed under arrest while investigations continue.

This is a significant enforcement action highlighting the vigilance of Indian customs authorities at airports in detecting sophisticated gold-smuggling attempts and ensuring compliance with laws regulating import of gold and precious metals.