Gold Smuggling Foiled at IGI Airport: 572 Grams Seized, Two Arrested

In a significant seizure at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Customs officials apprehended two Indian nationals for allegedly attempting to smuggle gold concealed in their baggage. The operation, conducted by the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) during the night shift on June 20, 2025, led to the recovery of 572 grams of gold valued at ₹54.96 lakh.

The two passengers, who had arrived from Riyadh to Delhi on Flight No. XY-329, were intercepted at the green channel exit of Terminal 3 following profiling and risk analysis by Customs officers. During X-ray screening, suspicious images were detected in their baggage.

A detailed examination revealed silver-coated wires suspected to contain concealed gold. Upon further scrutiny, it was confirmed that the wires contained a total of 572 grams of gold, meticulously hidden to evade detection.

Officials stated that the concealment method was deliberate and indicated clear intent to smuggle. Both individuals have been arrested under Section 104 of the Customs Act, 1962. The seized gold has been sent for purity testing and valuation.

Customs authorities have initiated further investigation to uncover the broader smuggling network and any additional violations under the Customs Act.

Customs, IGI Airport Date: 20.06.2025 (Night Shift)
Ops: AIU, IGI Airport, New Delhi
Seizure: 572Grams Gold
Value: Rs. 54,96,839/-

Based on profiling, two male Indian nationals arriving from Riyadh to Delhi by Flight No. XY-329 dated 20.06.2025 were intercepted at the exit… pic.twitter.com/SHOjz7LH53

— Delhi Customs (Airport & General) (@AirportGenCus) June 23, 2025