An Air India passenger was detained for smuggling gold at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport in a unique episode that shocked the aviation and customs enforcement sectors. The novel detection technique utilized by airline employees has drawn additional attention to the strategies adopted by smugglers.
The passenger, whose name is being withheld, was on aircraft AI 992 from Jeddah to Delhi when the cabin staff became suspicious of his actions. The passenger vehemently objected to water, food, and drinks during the five and a half-hour journey. The flight attendant reported this strange behavior to the captain, who then notified security agencies through Air Traffic Control.
When the passenger landed in Delhi, security guards kept a careful eye on him. The person made an attempt to evade customs inspection by using the Green Customs Clearance Channel, which is usually utilized by travelers who have nothing to declare. But increased awareness allowed the police to catch the suspect. Under interrogation, the traveler admitted to smuggling gold. Four oval capsules containing gold paste were hidden inside the passenger’s body, according to a later search. The 1096.76 grams of recovered gold had an approximate worth of ₹69 lakhs.
Following his detention under pertinent Customs Act sections, the accused is presently the subject of an investigation. Authorities have increased airport screening protocols in response to this occurrence, which has sparked worries about the strategies used by gold smugglers.
A Growing Trend
This is not an isolated case. In recent times, there has been a surge in gold smuggling activities through various unconventional methods. Earlier this year, a souvenir shop at Chennai airport was exposed as a front for a Sri Lankan gold smuggling syndicate. The shop owner, a YouTuber named Mohammed Sabir Ali, was arrested for his involvement in smuggling 267 kg of gold worth ₹167 crore over a period of two months.
Airline Vigilance
To combat this escalating threat, airlines are being urged to remain vigilant and train their cabin crew to identify suspicious passenger behavior. Refusal of refreshments, particularly on long-haul flights, has been identified as a potential red flag. Airlines are also implementing stricter security measures to prevent smuggled goods from entering the country.
Customs Enforcement
Customs authorities are intensifying their efforts to curb gold smuggling. Advanced screening technologies and increased manpower deployment are being employed to detect hidden contraband. Collaborative efforts between airlines and customs agencies are crucial in combating this illicit trade.
While these measures are in place, the challenge of detecting and preventing gold smuggling persists. Smugglers are constantly evolving their tactics, making it imperative for authorities to stay one step ahead. The arrest of the Air India passenger serves as a stark reminder of the creativity and determination of smugglers, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and innovation in combating this criminal activity.
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