International Gold-Smuggling Racket Busted at Mumbai Airport

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a gold-smuggling syndicate involving foreign nationals and airport insiders at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, leading to the seizure of gold worth nearly ₹5 crore.

According to officials, the operation was carried out by the DRI’s Mumbai Zonal Unit under a special mission named “Operation Golden Nexus”. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, investigators conducted coordinated action at the airport on Saturday and recovered approximately 3.2 kilograms of foreign-origin 24-carat gold dust in wax form.

The seized gold, estimated to be worth around ₹5 crore, was allegedly being smuggled into the country through a well-organized network involving Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan nationals. Authorities believe the syndicate had established channels to facilitate the illegal movement of precious metals while evading customs scrutiny.

As part of the investigation, seven individuals were arrested, including three airport staff members who are suspected of assisting the smuggling operation. Officials are examining the roles of each accused and investigating whether the network has links to other international smuggling activities.

The use of gold dust concealed in wax form is considered a sophisticated smuggling method designed to avoid detection during routine inspections. DRI officials stated that further inquiries are underway to identify additional members of the syndicate and uncover the full extent of its operations.

The successful operation highlights the continued efforts of Indian enforcement agencies to curb organized smuggling networks and protect the country’s economic interests. Authorities have indicated that more arrests and seizures may follow as the investigation progresses.