Customs Officials Intercept Passengers at IGI, Recover Gold and Narcotics
New Delhi: Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport intercepted a passenger on Wednesday, recovering a gold bar concealed in a cream box. The passenger, traveling from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to New Delhi, was detained based on intelligence inputs, officials said on Thursday.
During the X-ray screening of the baggage, security personnel identified suspicious images. Upon further inspection, they discovered a silver-colored gold bar weighing 117 grams hidden inside a cream box, according to Delhi Customs (Airport & General). The recovery highlights the increasing vigilance of customs officials in curbing smuggling activities.
This seizure comes on the heels of another significant bust at IGI Airport two weeks ago. On November 9, customs officials intercepted an Indian passenger arriving from Bangkok via Kuala Lumpur at Terminal-3. The passenger was attempting to smuggle 7.321 kilograms of suspected heroin worth approximately ₹29.28 crore.
The narcotics, concealed in seven green-colored polythene packets, were recovered from the passenger’s trolley bag after he crossed the green channel and approached the exit gate of the international arrival hall. Officials stated that the individual violated multiple provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, and was arrested under Section 43(b) of the Act.
These incidents underline the critical role of advanced screening technology and intelligence inputs in intercepting contraband at airports. The Customs department at IGI continues its efforts to safeguard national security and prevent the smuggling of illegal substances and precious metals.
