Have Authorities Seized 30,000 Smuggled Chinese Firecrackers Valued at Rs 5 Crore?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- DRI's operation led to the seizure of 30,000 firecrackers.
- The firecrackers were valued at Rs 5 crore.
- The operation is part of a broader campaign against illegal imports.
- Authorities emphasize the risks of hazardous goods.
- Public safety is a top priority for the DRI.
Mumbai, Nov 17 (NationPress) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully dismantled a sophisticated smuggling operation involving the illegal importation of fireworks and firecrackers originating from China, as reported on Monday.
Under the ongoing operation “Fire Trail” aimed at combating the unlawful import of firecrackers, the DRI confiscated 30,000 pieces of firecrackers worth Rs 5 crore at Mundra port and apprehended one individual, according to a statement from the Finance Ministry.
During the operation, DRI officials intercepted a 40-foot container at Mundra port, which was reported as carrying a “water glass set” and “flower receptacle” from China.
A thorough investigation uncovered the 30,000 pieces of concealed fireworks hidden behind a top layer of water glass set. The importer lacked any valid documentation to justify the import and admitted that the goods were smuggled for profit, stated the DRI.
Previously, in October, the DRI successfully thwarted attempts to illegally import Chinese firecrackers in Mumbai and Tuticorin.
In just October, the DRI's Mumbai Zonal Unit (MZU) confiscated illegally imported fireworks valued at around Rs. 16 crores.
The ministry specified that importing firecrackers is ‘Restricted’ under the ITC (HS) Classification of the Foreign Trade Policy and necessitates valid licenses from both the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) according to the Explosives Rules, 2008.
“The illegal import of such dangerous items presents significant risks to public safety, national security, critical port infrastructure, and the broader shipping and logistics framework,” remarked the DRI.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting the public from hazardous contraband and maintaining the integrity of the nation’s trade and security landscape by identifying and dismantling organized smuggling networks.