Did Maha Bust a Smuggling Operation of Chinese Fireworks Worth Rs 4.4 Crore at Nhava Sheva Port?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a major crackdown, the DRI has seized illegal Chinese fireworks worth Rs 4.4 crore at Nhava Sheva Port. This operation, part of the ongoing “Operation Fire Trail,” reflects India's commitment to combat smuggling and ensure public safety. Read on to discover how the DRI foiled this elaborate smuggling attempt.
Key Takeaways
- DRI's Operation Fire Trail: A significant initiative aimed at combating smuggling.
- Seizure Details: The operation successfully seized fireworks worth Rs 4.4 crore.
- Concealment Techniques: Firecrackers were hidden behind glass bottles to avoid detection.
- Legal Regulations: Importing firecrackers requires specific licenses under Indian law.
- Public Safety Risks: Illegal imports of hazardous materials endanger public safety and national security.
Lucknow, Oct 29 (NationPress) In a remarkable success under its ongoing campaign, “Operation Fire Trail,” the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Mumbai Zonal Unit, has effectively intercepted a smuggling operation involving illegal firecrackers originating from China entering India.
This operation culminated in the seizure of contraband valued at approximately Rs 4.4 crore at the Nhava Sheva Port.
Through meticulous intelligence collection, DRI officials pinpointed a suspicious 40-foot container that was falsely declared to be carrying “glass bottles” from China.
A closer examination of the shipment raised alarms, suggesting an effort to hide dangerous materials within the cargo.
The DRI team inspected the container at Nhava Sheva Port, leading to the unearthing of 29,340 pieces of Chinese firecrackers cleverly concealed behind a superficial layer of glass bottles.
This deceptive strategy was aimed at evading detection, with the fireworks disguised as legitimate cargo. The total worth of the confiscated items is around Rs 4.4 crore.
The importation of firecrackers is categorized as ‘Restricted’ under the ITC (HS) Classification of the Foreign Trade Policy, requiring specific licenses from both the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) as stipulated in the Explosives Rules, 2008.
The unlawful importation of hazardous materials poses significant threats to public safety, infrastructure, and national security.
In just the month of October 2025, the DRI MZU has confiscated illegally imported fireworks worth around Rs. 16 crores.
This successful operation highlights the DRI’s unwavering dedication to tackling illegal trade activities, dismantling smuggling operations, and safeguarding the security of India's borders.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that the DRI's relentless efforts in combating smuggling not only uphold the law but also safeguard the well-being of our citizens. This operation is a testament to the dedication of our enforcement agencies in maintaining national security and public safety.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What operation led to the seizure of illegal fireworks?
The operation was part of “Operation Fire Trail,” undertaken by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
How much contraband was seized?
The DRI seized illegal fireworks valued at approximately Rs 4.4 crore.
What were the fireworks disguised as?
The illegal fireworks were concealed behind a layer of glass bottles in a shipment from China.
What is the legal status of importing firecrackers in India?
The import of firecrackers is classified as ‘Restricted’ under the ITC (HS) Classification, requiring specific licenses.
What risks do illegal fireworks pose?
Illegal fireworks pose serious threats to public safety, infrastructure, and national security.
