DRI arrests Two Operators in Gold Smuggling Operation; 4 Kgs of Gold worth Rs.2.59 Crore Seized

The Mumbai Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested two people suspected of being key handlers in the gold smuggling network.

The arrest occurred at a hotel in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, following the seizure of 4 kg of illicit gold worth Rs.2.59 crore at the Mumbai International Airport on January 16.

Two individuals arriving from Saudi Arabia were detained at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and their gold was confiscated. The subsequent operation carried out by the DRI Mumbai Zonal Unit on Wednesday resulted in the arrest of the alleged handlers, signifying a strategic follow-up to the initial probe.

According to DRI sources, the arrested individuals played important roles in supervising both the carriers and recipients involved in the gold smuggling operation. They were identified as key links in the supply chain and were in charge of arranging the transit of contraband.

During the arrest, one of the handlers was found in possession of Rs.5.21 lakh, which is believed to be the revenues from the smuggled gold. The amount was right away seized under the terms of the Customs Act of 1962.

After being apprehended in Ahmedabad, the handlers were transferred to Mumbai on transit remand. Following a thorough inspection in the DRI’s custody, both people were brought before a city court on Thursday and subsequently remanded into judicial custody.

This successful operation by the DRI has revealed numerous layers of the gold smuggling syndicate, and the agency is currently pursuing leads to completely dismantle the network. A reliable DRI source stated that six people, including those from Mumbai and Ahmedabad, have been arrested in connection with this investigation.

This ongoing investigation aims to trace and eliminate all expected connections in the syndicate, which is a significant step towards reducing illegal gold smuggling activities.