Assam Police seize 37 kg gold worth ₹55 crore in Guwahati, one arrested
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Assam Police seized approximately 37 kg of gold valued at nearly ₹55 crore in a targeted operation in Guwahati on 30 June, arresting one person in connection with the haul, officials confirmed. The seizure ranks among the largest single gold recoveries by Assam Police in recent memory.
The Accused and the Arrest
The arrested individual has been identified as Akshay Bhansore, a resident of Sangli district in Maharashtra. According to preliminary findings, Bhansore had relocated to the Gandhi Basti area of Guwahati approximately two years ago after travelling from Maharashtra. Investigators believe he was operating as a courier, tasked with transporting gold consignments between locations. A case has been registered at Latasil Police Station and the investigation is ongoing.
How the Operation Unfolded
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Sambhavi Mishra stated that the recovery was made during an intelligence-led operation based on specific inputs received by the force. The seized gold has been taken into custody and is currently undergoing examination as part of the probe. Officials said investigators are scrutinising Bhansore's financial records and communication logs to identify any other individuals linked to the network.
Tracing the Smuggling Network
Authorities are working to establish the ownership of the seized gold, trace its source, and identify its intended recipients. Police have not ruled out further arrests as the probe deepens. The investigation is also focused on determining whether the consignment is part of a larger interstate gold-smuggling network operating across the Northeast. Assam Police are coordinating with other investigative agencies to verify the origin of the gold and map the wider operation behind its movement.
Broader Crackdown on Organised Smuggling
The seizure comes amid a sustained enforcement drive against organised smuggling and illegal trade networks in the region. Senior police officials said intelligence-based operations targeting gold and narcotics smuggling have been significantly stepped up across the state. This is the latest in a series of high-value recoveries as Assam tightens its grip on contraband corridors running through the Northeast. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.