The Customs Department achieved a major breakthrough at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi on Wednesday when officials seized over 10 kg of gold coins from two passengers. According to the authorities, the recovered gold is valued at approximately ₹7.8 crore.
Gold Seizure Based on Intelligence Tip-Off
Customs officials carried out this operation after receiving intelligence from a confidential source. Acting on the tip-off, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) intercepted two male passengers who had arrived from Milan, Italy, via flight number AI-138.
Upon closer inspection and surveillance, officials noted suspicious behavior in both individuals and decided to stop them for questioning at the green channel—the area meant for travelers with no dutiable goods.
Gold Coins Hidden in Specially Designed Waist Belts
The two detained passengers, aged 45 and 43 years, were identified as residents of Kashmir. Although their baggage was scanned, officials did not find anything unusual or suspicious inside.
However, further investigation using a Door Frame Metal Detector (DFMD) raised alarms, leading to a personal search. This resulted in the discovery of two specially designed waist belts hidden beneath their clothing. Upon closer examination, the belts were found to contain gold coins wrapped in plastic envelopes.
When the concealed gold coins were extracted and weighed, their total weight was recorded at 10.092 kg, confirming the massive smuggling attempt.
🚨 10 KG of Gold Coins Worth ₹7.8 Crore Seized at IGI Airport from Two Passengers 🚨
— Delhi Customs (Airport & General) (@AirportGenCus) February 5, 2025
In a swift operation based on specific intelligence, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Customs, IGI Airport, New Delhi, intercepted two male passengers (aged 45,43 years) belonging to Kashmir,… pic.twitter.com/Sk03hQjItR
Gold Worth ₹7.8 Crore Seized, Passengers Detained
Following the recovery of gold, authorities detained both passengers under the Customs Act, 1962, for further investigation. The seizure of such a large quantity of gold has raised concerns about international smuggling networks, and officials are now probing the origin and intended recipients of the contraband.
This successful operation once again highlights the vigilance and efficiency of the Customs Department in curbing illegal gold smuggling at Indian airports. Further legal proceedings are underway to unravel the smuggling network behind this attempt.