DRI Cracks Down on Gold Smuggling Syndicate in Mumbai: Rs 12.58 Crore Gold Seized
In a major operation code-named 'Operation Golden Sweep', the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) apprehended 13 individuals and seized 10.488 kg of 24 karat gold, valued at Rs 12.58 crore, from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.
Gold SmugglingDriChhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International AirportMumbaiInternational SyndicateReal Estate MumbaiOct 12, 2025
The DRI's intelligence revealed a highly organized and sophisticated modus operandi used by the syndicate. Transit passengers from Dubai to Singapore, Bangkok, and Dhaka via Mumbai were employed as carriers. These passengers concealed gold in egg-shaped wax capsules inside their bodies. Upon arrival in Mumbai, the transit passengers discreetly handed over the smuggled gold to complicit airport staff within the international departure area. The staff then illicitly removed the gold from the airport premises and delivered it to handlers and receivers, who were in coordination with the mastermind.
The syndicate was operated by masterminds based in Mumbai and Dubai. It employed a multi-layered approach, involving transit passengers, airport staff, handlers, and several layers of receivers. The operation successfully dismantled this intricate network, arresting 13 individuals, including two Bangladeshi nationals, six Sri Lankan nationals, two airport staff members of a meet-and-greet service, two handlers, and the mastermind in Mumbai.
This successful operation underscores the DRI's robust intelligence capabilities, swift execution, and coordinated enforcement efforts. It highlights the evolving methods of smuggling syndicates and the growing insider threat within sensitive infrastructure. Organized syndicates are increasingly exploiting transit routes and airport personnel for monetary gain.
Further investigations are in progress to uncover the full extent of the syndicate's operations and to ensure that all involved parties are brought to justice. The DRI remains vigilant and committed to combating such illegal activities, protecting the nation's economic interests, and maintaining the integrity of its financial systems.
The operation also serves as a warning to potential smugglers and highlights the importance of stringent security measures at airports and other critical infrastructure. The DRI's proactive approach in identifying and dismantling such syndicates is crucial in maintaining the country's financial stability and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the operation code-named by the DRI?
The operation was code-named 'Operation Golden Sweep'.
How much gold was seized in the operation?
10.488 kg of 24 karat gold, valued at approximately Rs 12.58 crore, was seized.
How many individuals were arrested during the operation?
Thirteen individuals, including foreign nationals and airport staff, were arrested.
What was the modus operandi of the gold smuggling syndicate?
The syndicate used transit passengers who concealed gold in egg-shaped wax capsules inside their bodies. Upon arrival in Mumbai, the gold was handed over to complicit airport staff, who then delivered it to handlers and receivers.
Where did the operation take place?
The operation took place at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.
Tags:
Related News Articles
Mahindra Lifespaces Unveils Phase 4 of Pune's Premium Residential Project
Mahindra Lifespaces launches the final phase of its residential project Mahindra Happinest Tathawade in Pune
Tier 2 Cities: The Emerging Hotspots for Real Estate Investment in India
Discover why Tier 2 cities are becoming the next big investment hubs for real estate in India, driven by rapid urbanization, growing disposable incomes, and infrastructure development.
K-RERA Mandates BDA to Pay Rs 12.5 Lakhs for Construction Delay
In a significant ruling, the Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority (K-RERA) has ordered the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) to pay Rs 12.5 lakhs to a homebuyer for the delay in the project site development.
Omaxe's Share Price Plummets: A 52-Week Low Amid Rising Losses
Omaxe's stock hit a new 52-week low on Friday, opening at Rs 74.75 per share and dipping further during the trading session. This decline comes amid increasing financial losses for the real estate firm.
Tragic Electrocution Occurs While Setting Up Traps in Mulugu
A man was tragically electrocuted while setting up traps to hunt wildlife in the Mulugu district of Telangana. The incident highlights the dangers of tampering with electrical systems and the need for safety measures.
Navigating the Job Market: Challenges and Strategies Amid Economic Uncertainty
The current economic climate has left many industries grappling with job uncertainty and falling incomes. From ancillary services to real estate and consumer goods, the impact is widespread. This article explores the challenges and potential strategies to navigate these tough times.