Security personnel at Mumbai Airport thwarted a major smuggling attempt following a specific intelligence input, leading to the recovery of suspicious gold valued at approximately Rs 1.83 crore. The operation resulted in the apprehension of an international transit passenger from Sri Lanka alongside an employee working for an airline.
Details of the Operation
According to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), the incident unfolded on October 21 near the elevator close to boarding gate number 65. Investigators stated that the foreign transit passenger allegedly handed over a suspicious packet to the airline staff member within the elevator area. Alert security personnel intercepted the duo immediately and recovered three oval-shaped items that appeared to be gold paste hidden inside the package.
Transfer to Customs Authorities
Following the interception, both individuals were handed over to the Customs and Airport Intelligence Unit (AIU) for detailed questioning and further investigation. Officials from the Customs and AIU confirmed that the seized material weighed approximately 1,490 grams. The recovered items consisted of three pieces of 24-karat gold with an estimated market value of Rs 1.83 crore.
Legal Proceedings and Vigilance
The Customs and AIU authorities subsequently produced both accused individuals before a competent court to initiate further legal action. The security agency reiterated that heightened surveillance and strict vigilance will continue across airport premises to deter and intercept any illicit smuggling operations in the future.
