DRI intensifies crackdown on gold smuggling in pan-India operations; seizes around 41 kg foreign-origin gold worth Rs. 62 crore (approx.); 24 persons, including three foreign nationals, arrested
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted six intelligence-led operations across India, seizing approximately 41 kg of foreign-origin gold worth around Rs. 62 crore. A total of 24 persons, including three foreign nationals, were arrested during these operations which exposed sophisticated smuggling networks operating via airports, railways, and borders.
Why It Matters
This is relevant for competitive exam candidates studying internal security, anti-smuggling enforcement, and the role of agencies like the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in countering economic offenses.
In Simple Words
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence recently carried out several intelligence-based operations across the country to crack down on organized gold smuggling. These coordinated actions led to the seizure of about 41 kg of foreign gold valued at roughly Rs. 62 crore.
Authorities arrested 24 individuals, including three foreign nationals, exposing complex smuggling methods that involved airports, trains, and international borders. Operations spanned multiple locations including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Calicut, and Uttar Pradesh, showcasing extensive collusion and concealment tactics.
Key Points
- DRI seized around 41 kg of foreign-origin gold worth about Rs. 62 crore.
- A total of 24 persons, including three foreign nationals, were arrested.
- Operations uncovered smuggling networks using airports, rail routes, and the Indo-Bangladesh border.
- In Delhi, 10.2 kg of gold and a manufacturing facility for melting gold were found.
- In Mumbai, 3.47 kg of gold dust in wax capsules was seized involving airport staff and transit passengers.
- An operation in coordination with BSF near the Indo-Bangladesh border recovered 11.3 kg of gold.
- In Chennai, 2.5 kg of gold was recovered via rectum concealment from passengers arriving from Sri Lanka.
- Gold was also recovered from unconventional items like a treadmill motor, a coffee machine, and an infant's diaper.
Exam Angle
A. Around 41 kg
Source: Press Information Bureau