IGI Airport Smuggling: Interim Order Reversed After CCTV Footage Reveals Undeclared Phones, Watches & Gold 

An Indian-origin U.S. citizen, approached the Delhi High Court seeking the release of goods detained by Customs at IGI Airport after he arrived from Frankfurt on the night of 14-15 November 2025. He alleged illegal detention for over 40 hours and claimed that items such as mobile phones, watches, and jewellery were personal effects or gifts. On 3 December 2025, the Court passed interim directions permitting release of used jewellery and mobile phones and directed Customs to hear the petitioner on the remaining goods. A contempt petition was later filed alleging non-compliance.

Customs sought review of the interim order, alleging suppression of material facts. It was revealed that the petitioner and his family were intercepted at the Green Channel and that high-value undeclared goods, including 17 mobile phones, watches, electronics, and over 500 grams of gold jewellery, were deliberately concealed in a black backpack placed in an infant’s stroller. CCTV footage supported this version.

Issue Before Court: Whether the interim relief granted on 3 December 2025 was liable to be recalled due to suppression of facts and deliberate concealment amounting to smuggling.

HC Ruled: The High Court held that the petitioner had misled the Court by withholding crucial facts regarding concealment and partial release of goods. It was observed that carrying such quantities of goods could not be explained as personal use.

Customs was permitted to proceed in accordance with law by issuing a show cause notice under Section 124 of the Customs Act. The petitioner was granted liberty to respond, seek re-export if advised, and participate in adjudication. The contempt petition was dismissed with costs of Rs. 10,000, the Court reiterating that discretionary relief cannot be enforced by a litigant who suppresses material facts.

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