In a major gold smuggling bust, Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi, seized 172 grams of gold cleverly concealed inside dates. The seizure took place on February 26, 2025, during the day shift operations of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU).
Passenger Intercepted Based on Profiling
Acting on intelligence and spot profiling, Customs officers intercepted a 56-year-old Indian male passenger who had arrived from Jeddah to Delhi on flight SV-756. The passenger was stopped at the Green Channel exit for further scrutiny.
How the Smuggling Attempt Was Foiled
- During an X-ray baggage scan, officials detected suspicious images.
- As the passenger walked through the Door Frame Metal Detector (DFMD), a strong beep alerted officials.
- A thorough manual examination of the baggage revealed gold cut pieces and a gold chain cleverly hidden inside dates.
Gold Smuggling via Innovative Methods
Gold smuggling through edible items like dates, chocolates, and even spices has become a growing trend among smugglers. By hiding gold in such items, traffickers attempt to evade detection by security scanners. However, Customs authorities remain vigilant, leveraging AI-driven profiling and advanced scanning technologies to thwart such attempts.
Legal Action and Investigation Underway
The seized 172g gold is currently under investigation, and appropriate legal action is being taken against the accused under the Customs Act, 1962.
Recent Gold Seizures at IGI Airport
Delhi’s IGI Airport has witnessed multiple gold smuggling attempts in the past, including concealment in electronic gadgets, body cavities, and luggage linings. Customs authorities have intensified surveillance measures to curb such illegal activities.
Read More: Customs Officers Seize Gold Worth ₹1.3 Crore at IGI Airport, One Arrested
