Mumbai Airport Customs Seizes Smuggled Gold Worth ₹3.60 Crore at CSMIA
Mumbai: In two separate incidents, Mumbai Airport Customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) have seized gold worth ₹3.60 crore, highlighting the ongoing efforts to curb illegal smuggling activities.
Gold SmugglingCsmiaCustoms SeizureMumbai AirportChhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International AirportReal Estate MumbaiMar 14, 2025
The first seizure took place when a traveler arriving from a Middle Eastern country was found to be carrying gold bars concealed in his luggage. The customs officials, upon suspecting the traveler, conducted a thorough inspection and discovered the contraband. The gold bars, valued at approximately ₹2.10 crore, were immediately confiscated and the traveler was subjected to further questioning.
In the second incident, customs officials intercepted a shipment that was declared as electronic components. However, upon closer inspection, it was revealed that the shipment contained gold bars worth ₹1.50 crore. The sender and receiver of the shipment are currently being investigated, and the authorities are following up on leads to identify any accomplices involved in the smuggling operation.
Customs authorities at CSMIA have been particularly active in recent months, bolstering their efforts to combat the illegal import and export of goods. The seizures of gold, which often evade taxes and other duties, not only help in recovering potential revenue for the government but also serve as a strong deterrent against future smuggling attempts.
The gold smuggling racket has been a persistent issue, driven by the high demand for gold in the domestic market and the lucrative profit margins for smugglers. Gold is often used as a hedge against inflation and is a preferred investment for many Indians. However, the legal import of gold is heavily regulated and taxed, making it an attractive target for smugglers.
To address this, the customs department has been enhancing its surveillance and inspection capabilities. Advanced technologies such as X-ray machines, metal detectors, and other screening tools are being used to detect concealed items. Additionally, the department has increased the number of trained personnel and has enhanced coordination with other law enforcement agencies to ensure comprehensive coverage.
The seizures at CSMIA have been widely appreciated by the public and industry experts. CREDAI-MCHI, the apex body of real estate developers in Maharashtra, lauded the government's efforts in curbing illegal activities that could potentially destabilize the economy. The real estate sector, in particular, has been a beneficiary of the government's focus on transparency and regulatory compliance.
The CSMIA, one of the busiest airports in India, handles a significant volume of international traffic. The airport has been proactive in implementing stringent security measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the air travel experience. The customs operations at the airport are a critical component of this security framework, and the recent seizures are a testament to the effectiveness of these measures.
In conclusion, the successful seizures of smuggled gold at CSMIA highlight the ongoing commitment of the customs department to maintain the integrity of the country's borders and economic stability. These operations not only recover lost revenue but also send a clear message to potential smugglers that illegal activities will not be tolerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the gold seized at CSMIA?
The gold seized at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in two separate incidents is valued at ₹3.60 crore.
How many separate incidents led to the seizures?
There were two separate incidents that led to the seizures of gold at CSMIA.
What measures are being used to detect smuggled items at CSMIA?
Advanced technologies such as X-ray machines, metal detectors, and other screening tools are being used to detect concealed items at CSMIA.
Why is gold smuggling a persistent issue?
Gold smuggling is a persistent issue due to the high demand for gold in the domestic market and the lucrative profit margins for smugglers. The legal import of gold is heavily regulated and taxed, making it an attractive target for smugglers.
How has the real estate sector responded to the government's efforts in curbing illegal activities?
The real estate sector, represented by CREDAI-MCHI, has lauded the government's efforts in curbing illegal activities that could potentially destabilize the economy. The sector has been a beneficiary of the government's focus on transparency and regulatory compliance.
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