Major Gold Seizure at CSMI Airport : Customs Officers Intercept Smugglers in Mumbai
MUMBAI, India – March 16, 2025 VivekRajendraJagtap
In a significant crackdown on gold smuggling, Customs officers at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMI), Mumbai, have seized a substantial quantity of 24KT gold over the course of three days, from March 13 to March 15, 2025. A total of 10.923 kg of gold dust—concealed in various ingenious methods—was recovered, amounting to a provisional valuation of approximately Rs. 8.47 crore. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against illicit gold trafficking in one of India’s busiest airports.
The Details of the Seizures
The investigation began when Customs officers noticed suspicious behavior among airport private staff, leading to a series of interceptions.
Case 1: The first arrest occurred when officers stopped a private airport staff member and discovered six oval-shaped capsules filled with gold dust concealed in his pants. This case yielded 2,936 grams of gold dust, with a net weight of 2,800 grams, valued at Rs. 2,27,89,370. The individual was subsequently arrested under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
Case 2: Following the success of the first seizure, another airport employee was apprehended in the international departure area. Officers found seven capsules of gold dust, hidden in his underwear. This recovery resulted in 3,031 grams of gold dust, nearly reaching a valuation of Rs. 2,36,03,274—also leading to the arrest of the suspect.
Case 3: During the night shift, a third individual was stopped by Customs officers, who found two pouches containing 24KT gold dust concealed in his undergarment. The total amounted to 1,687 grams, valued at approximately Rs. 1.31 crore. This case prompted further investigations, leading to the arrest of three people, including the mentioned airport staff.
Case 4: The final case unfolded during a routine rummaging of garbage bags from an international flight. Officers uncovered two black pouches containing gold dust inside these bags, amounting to a gross weight of 3.269 kg and a provisional value of Rs. 2.53 crore.
Statements from Officials
Additionally, a senior Customs officer involved in the operation added, “Gold smuggling is a persistent issue, often exacerbated by its high value and demand. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity at airports.”
Broader Implications and Context
The seizure of gold in these cases serves as a reminder of the ongoing and escalating issue of gold smuggling in India. According to industry experts, illegal trafficking of precious metals poses a significant threat to the economy and security of the nation. With the burgeoning demand for gold, particularly among consumers, smugglers are increasingly resorting to creative methods to bypass customs checks.
The Customs Department has ramped up its efforts in recent months to address this challenge, employing advanced surveillance technologies and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to stay ahead of smugglers.
Conclusion
The recent series of gold seizures at CSMI Airport represents a significant victory for Indian Customs and law enforcement agencies in the fight against smuggling. As methods of contraband trafficking become more sophisticated, so too must the strategies and technologies employed by authorities. The ongoing commitment to upholding the law is crucial in maintaining the integrity of India’s borders and economy, ensuring that such victories are not just isolated incidents but part of a larger, sustained effort against illegal activities. The Customs Department encourages continued vigilance and cooperation from the public to help curb this rampant issue.
