Mumbai Customs has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, recording significant seizures of gold, narcotic substances, foreign currency, wildlife, and high-value commercial goods during the first three weeks of July 2026. The enforcement drive underscores the Customs department’s continued efforts to curb cross-border smuggling through airports and other entry points.
According to official data, between 1 July and 21 July 2026, Mumbai Customs registered multiple successful interceptions that led to the seizure of contraband collectively worth several crores of rupees across various categories. The operations also resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals allegedly involved in smuggling activities.
Buy Now: Customs Duty Judgements E-Compilation – June 2026
Gold Worth ₹11.40 Crore Seized in 24 Cases
Gold continued to remain one of the most commonly smuggled commodities. During the period under review, Customs officers seized 9.24 kilograms of gold valued at approximately ₹11.40 crore in 24 separate cases. The seizures were made through intelligence-based operations and passenger profiling, reflecting sustained attempts by smugglers to illegally import precious metals into India.
Hydroponic Weed Worth ₹13.51 Crore Intercepted
In a major success against narcotics trafficking, Mumbai Customs seized 38.6 kilograms of Hydroponic Weed (Ganja)valued at around ₹13.51 crore across nine cases. Hydroponic cannabis, known for its significantly higher concentration of psychoactive substances compared to conventional cannabis, commands a premium price in the illegal drug market. The seizures represent a substantial blow to organised narcotics smuggling networks.
Foreign Currency Worth Over ₹1 Crore Recovered
Customs officials also intercepted illegal foreign currency movements in three cases, recovering 1,32,000 Saudi Riyalsand 75,300 US Dollars with a combined estimated value of ₹1.04 crore. Such seizures are significant from the perspective of enforcing foreign exchange regulations and preventing illicit cross-border financial transactions.
Silver Jewellery Seized
Apart from gold, Customs officers also seized approximately 6 kilograms of silver jewellery valued at ₹16.50 lakh. The seizure forms part of the department’s continued vigilance against the illegal import of precious metals and jewellery.
Rare Black Lemurs Rescued in Wildlife Smuggling Case
In an important wildlife protection operation, Mumbai Customs rescued two live Black Lemurs from an attempted wildlife smuggling racket. The rescue highlights the department’s growing role in combating illegal wildlife trafficking, which violates both Indian wildlife protection laws and international conservation treaties.
High-Value Commercial Goods Worth ₹2.18 Crore Seized
The department also confiscated commercial goods valued at approximately ₹2.18 crore in eight separate cases. The seized items included:
- Apple iPhones
- Premium watches
- Samsung smartphones
- Drones
- PlayStation gaming consoles
- Pharmaceutical injections
- Cigarettes and e-cigarettes
- Saffron
- Refurbished laptops
- Other prohibited and undeclared commercial goods
These seizures indicate continued attempts to evade customs duties through illegal import channels.
Nineteen Persons Arrested
As part of the anti-smuggling drive, 19 individuals were arrested for their alleged involvement in various smuggling offences. Investigations are continuing to identify larger syndicates and networks operating behind these smuggling attempts.
Strong Enforcement Against Smuggling Networks
The latest enforcement figures demonstrate Mumbai Customs‘ sustained focus on intelligence-driven operations targeting multiple forms of smuggling, including precious metals, narcotics, foreign currency, wildlife, and commercial goods. The department’s coordinated enforcement efforts have resulted in significant recoveries and arrests, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding India’s economic interests, enforcing customs laws, and preventing illegal cross-border trade.
