In a significant crackdown against smuggling at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Customs intercepted an Iraqi national attempting to smuggle over 1.2 kilograms of suspected gold into the country.
The passenger, who had arrived on Flight from Baghdad on the morning of April 7, 2025, was intercepted at Terminal 3 while attempting to pass through the green channel, indicating that he had nothing to declare. Acting on specific profiling inputs, Customs officials directed the individual for further checks.
An X-ray screening of the passenger’s baggage revealed suspicious images, prompting a more detailed examination. The Door Frame Metal Detector (DFMD) also emitted a strong alert when the passenger passed through, confirming the need for a thorough inspection.
Upon detailed search, Customs officials recovered a total of 1203 grams of yellow metal, suspected to be gold, along with some silver-coated jewellery. The precious metal was ingeniously concealed within the baggage, indicating a clear intent to evade customs duty and smuggle the items into India.
The seized metal is currently undergoing purity and valuation tests. Officials have stated that further investigations are underway to determine the exact value of the seizure and identify any contraventions under the Customs Act, 1962.
This incident underscores the continuing vigilance of Customs authorities at IGI Airport in curbing gold smuggling operations, especially those involving foreign nationals using sophisticated concealment techniques.
Investigation in progress.
