Did a Chadian National Smuggle Gold Worth Rs 3.86 Crore in Slippers at Mumbai Airport?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A Chadian national was arrested at Mumbai's airport for smuggling gold worth Rs 3.86 crore concealed in his slippers. This incident highlights the ongoing battle against gold smuggling in India and the DRI's commitment to border security.
Key Takeaways
- 4,015 grams of gold seized at Mumbai airport.
- Gold worth Rs 3.86 crore hidden in slippers.
- Chadian national arrested under Customs Act, 1962.
- Investigation ongoing to trace origins of smuggled gold.
- DRI's commitment to combatting smuggling reinforced.
Mumbai, May 17 (NationPress) In a significant operation against gold smuggling, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Mumbai apprehended a Chadian national who had just landed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) from Addis Ababa. The officials seized 4,015 grams of gold valued at Rs 3.86 crore, skillfully concealed within the heels of his slippers.
Acting on precise intelligence, DRI agents intercepted the male traveler right after his arrival in Mumbai. During a thorough personal search, they found several foreign-origin gold bars expertly hidden inside the modified heels of the man's slippers.
In a voluntarily provided statement, the Chadian individual confessed to hiding the gold in this unconventional manner to evade customs inspections and avoid detection by authorities. The gold was confiscated under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, leading to the passenger's arrest.
Officials have indicated that further investigations are in progress to uncover the origin and intended recipients of the smuggled gold, as well as to ascertain if this incident connects to a larger smuggling operation.
This seizure contributes to a rising number of recent smuggling attempts successfully thwarted by the vigilant DRI personnel.
In a previous case from April 2025, DRI Mumbai had confiscated foreign-origin gold worth Rs 6.30 crore from a passenger arriving at CSMIA from Bangkok. That gold was also hidden in specially designed compartments of the traveler's luggage and was seized under the Customs Act, resulting in the immediate arrest of the individual.
The DRI remains committed to maintaining rigorous surveillance at international entry points, utilizing a mix of intelligence gathering and monitoring to prevent smuggling of precious metals and other illegal goods. The agency has reaffirmed its dedication to combating such offenses, which pose significant risks to economic stability and border security.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the rise of gold smuggling in India and the proactive measures being taken by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence. This incident not only underscores the challenges faced by customs authorities but also highlights the importance of continued vigilance to protect our economy and national security.
NationPress
10/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was hidden in the Chadian national's slippers?
The Chadian national was found to be concealing 4,015 grams of gold valued at Rs 3.86 crore in the heels of his slippers.
What actions did the DRI take?
The DRI arrested the Chadian national and seized the gold under the Customs Act, 1962.
Where was the Chadian national arriving from?
He arrived at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport from Addis Ababa.
What is the DRI's role in this incident?
The DRI is responsible for combating smuggling activities and ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
How does this incident relate to previous smuggling cases?
This seizure adds to a series of recent smuggling attempts intercepted by DRI officials, showcasing ongoing challenges in border security.
