In a daring attempt to smuggle gold worth Rs5.2 million from Abu Dhabi, an Indian passenger was apprehended by the vigilant Cochin Customs on Sunday. The culprit, who had concealed 954.70 grams of gold inside his body, was intercepted by the Cochin Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) officers upon his arrival from Abu Dhabi via Air Arabia flight no.3L127 at the green channel.
The Cochin Customs officials, relying on meticulous profiling, identified the suspicious passenger and decided to conduct a thorough examination. During this process, they discovered four capsule-shaped packets containing gold in compound form, totaling 954.70 grams, hidden inside the passenger’s body. The seized contraband has an estimated value of Rs5.2 million. The authorities have initiated further investigation to unveil any potential accomplices or additional details related to the smuggling operation.
This incident echoes a recent gold seizure at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on November 22. Acting on profiling, customs officials confiscated 3735 grams of gold valued at Rs1.99 Crores from three foreign nationals arriving from Dubai. The passengers involved in this case were promptly arrested under the Customs Act of 1962.
The prevalence of gold smuggling attempts raises concerns about the effectiveness of current security measures at airports. The Cochin Customs and other relevant authorities will likely intensify efforts to enhance screening procedures and surveillance to curb such illicit activities. The collaboration between intelligence units and customs officials plays a pivotal role in successfully intercepting and preventing smuggling attempts, safeguarding the nation’s economic interests.
In conclusion, Cochin Customs’ swift action in intercepting the gold smuggler highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in curbing illegal activities. The relentless pursuit of enhanced security measures and collaboration between intelligence units and customs officials remains crucial in maintaining the integrity of border controls and safeguarding against economic threats.
