Surat Customs Uncover New Gold Smuggling Trick, Seize ₹36.89 Lakh Worth Gold

SURAT : In a major breakthrough, customs officials at Surat International Airport have exposed a sophisticated new gold smuggling technique that attempted to outsmart airport security. The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) seized gold worth ₹36.89 lakh after discovering that a smuggler had cleverly disguised a pure gold bracelet with a silver-colored coating to make it appear like an ordinary silver ornament.

The seizure was made following the arrival of Air India Express flight IX-274 from Dubai on June 14. According to customs officials, all passengers had disembarked when a routine search of the aircraft was carried out. During the inspection, officers found a small black velvet bag abandoned beneath seat number 21-B.

Initially appearing to contain a simple silver bracelet, the item aroused suspicion due to its unusual weight and craftsmanship. Customs officials referred it to a government-approved valuer for examination. During testing, the silver-colored outer coating cracked, revealing a 24-carat gold bracelet concealed underneath.

Officials said the bracelet weighed 238 grams and was valued at ₹36.89 lakh in the domestic market.

“This is a completely new modus operandi. Traditionally, smugglers use chemical coatings to conceal gold, but in this case the gold itself was disguised with a silver finish to avoid detection during scanning and physical checks,” a customs source said.

Investigators believe the passenger carrying the bracelet abandoned it under the seat after noticing the strict customs screening procedures at Surat Airport. The suspect is believed to have cleared immigration and exited the airport without claiming the concealed gold.

The seized gold has been confiscated under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. Customs authorities have now begun scrutinising the passenger manifest and seating records of flight IX-274 to identify the individual who occupied seat 21-B.

Officials said surveillance footage and travel records are also being examined as part of the investigation. The incident highlights the evolving tactics employed by smugglers and underscores the vigilance of customs officers in preventing illegal gold imports through Indian airports.

The AIU’s latest success has once again reinforced Surat Airport’s growing reputation as a key frontline in the fight against gold smuggling networks operating from Gulf countries.