Gold Smuggling Attempt Worth Rs 55 Lakh Foiled at Ahmedabad Airport

Ahmedabad | Gujarat – The Customs Department at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has foiled a major attempt to smuggle gold into India. Officials seized a gold chain weighing 506 grams worth Rs 55 lakh from a passenger who had arrived from Dubai. The passenger was attempting to sneak in the gold without paying customs duty, in what officials described as a clear case of smuggling.

A senior Customs officer confirmed the action, stating, “Based on specific intelligence, our team intercepted a passenger who was trying to pass off a thick gold chain as ordinary jewelry. The seizure reflects our zero-tolerance policy towards smuggling.”

Gold Chain Worn Openly to Evade Checks

During inspection, the passenger was found wearing an unusually thick gold chain around his neck. At first glance, it appeared to be jewelry, but closer scrutiny revealed its true weight and value. Officials said the chain was deliberately worn in the open, banking on the possibility that it would escape suspicion.

“The passenger assumed that declaring it as personal jewelry would help evade duty checks. However, the chain’s size and weight raised doubts. On detailed questioning and search, the smuggling attempt came to light,” the officer added.

Passenger Arrested, Racket Under Investigation

The Customs Department immediately seized the gold and arrested the passenger. Officials said the act falls under offences of smuggling under the Customs Act, carrying strict penalties. Investigators are also probing whether the passenger is part of a larger smuggling network operating between Dubai and India.

Authorities suspect that syndicates are using passengers to transport gold in small quantities to avoid detection. “This may not be an isolated case. We are tracking possible links with other members of the racket and will act against them,” said a source in the investigation team.

Customs Warns Smugglers

Officials stressed that Ahmedabad airport remains under strict surveillance to deter smuggling. “Our message is clear — anyone attempting to smuggle gold or any contraband will face severe consequences. Vigilance and enforcement will only get stricter,” the Customs officer warned.