The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Mumbai has successfully foiled a major gold smuggling attempt at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Acting on specific intelligence, the agency arrested two foreign nationals who were trying to smuggle gold worth nearly Rs 19 crore into India.
How the Smuggling Attempt Was Carried Out
The accused were identified as Salem Abdulla Alshamshi, a 33-year-old UAE national, and Alshamshi Abdullah Hmed, a 38-year-old from Oman. They arrived in Mumbai on an Emirates flight from Dubai and attempted to bypass customs through the green channel.
However, DRI officials intercepted them near the exit gate. Upon conducting a personal search, authorities discovered that both passengers were wearing specially designed waist belts to conceal the gold.
Seized Gold and Smuggling Tactics
A total of 21 gold bars and a cut piece of gold were recovered from their possession. Salem Abdulla Alshamshi was found with 10.302 kg of gold, while Alshamshi Abdullah Hmed had 10.986 kg. The total value of the smuggled gold was estimated at Rs 18.92 crore.
Gold smuggling syndicates often use innovative methods to bypass security, including concealing gold in electronic items, luggage, or even body cavities. In this case, the use of a customized waist belt suggests a high level of planning and expertise.
Investigation Into the Smuggling Network
Following the arrests, DRI has launched a deeper investigation to identify other members of the smuggling network operating both in Mumbai and abroad. Authorities are also looking into the distribution channels of the smuggled gold and its links to illegal hawala transactions.
The arrested individuals have been booked under Sections 104 and 135 of the Customs Act, which deal with offenses related to smuggling and evasion of duties.
Growing Concerns Over Gold Smuggling in India
Gold smuggling remains a significant concern in India due to high import duties and the demand for gold in the black market. Smugglers often use international routes, especially from Dubai, to bring gold into the country through concealed means.
Authorities have been ramping up efforts to curb illegal gold trade, with frequent crackdowns at airports and border checkpoints. This latest arrest highlights the ongoing battle against gold smuggling and the critical role of intelligence in intercepting such operations.
