In a series of coordinated intelligence-driven operations, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled multiple organised smuggling networks operating across several states, leading to the seizure of nearly 9 kilograms of foreign-origin gold, 42 kilograms of silver, foreign currency worth approximately ₹8.15 crore, and ₹26.67 lakh in Indian cash. Eight persons have been arrested in connection with the operations, exposing an extensive cross-border smuggling and hawala-style financing network.
The operations, conducted in Delhi, West Bengal, Bihar, Mizoram, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, uncovered sophisticated methods of transporting smuggled gold into India and illegally moving foreign currency out of the country to finance precious metal smuggling.
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Delhi-Based Gold Smuggling Syndicate Busted
Continuing its nationwide campaign against cross-border gold smuggling, DRI uncovered a Delhi-based syndicate that was transporting foreign-origin gold from India’s North-Eastern region to the national capital through railway routes.
According to investigators, the syndicate employed multiple carriers travelling on different trains to minimise the chances of detection. The staggered movement of couriers ensured that even if one carrier was intercepted, the remaining consignments could still reach their destination. The organisation had also established an illegal gold-melting facility inside a densely populated residential locality in Delhi, where smuggled gold was allegedly melted and processed before entering the domestic market.
Coordinated Interceptions Across States
On 26 June 2026, DRI officers simultaneously launched multiple operations based on specific intelligence inputs.
Two carriers were intercepted separately at New Cooch Behar Railway Station in West Bengal and Mansi Junction in Bihar. During personal searches, officers recovered nearly 2 kilograms of foreign-origin gold bars concealed on their bodies.
At the same time, another operation in Delhi resulted in the apprehension of two additional suspects who were found in possession of approximately 1.2 kilograms of smuggled gold. The investigation subsequently led officers to the clandestine gold-melting unit operating in the city.
All four individuals were arrested under the provisions of the Customs Act.
Woman Carrier Caught with Gold Hidden in Waist Belt
In another operation carried out the same day, DRI officers intercepted a woman travelling by train from Sairang to Kolkata.
A detailed examination revealed 20 foreign-origin gold bars weighing approximately 3.3 kilograms, concealed inside a specially designed waist belt worn beneath her clothing. The gold bars bore markings in a foreign language, indicating their overseas origin.
The woman was arrested and the gold was seized for further investigation.
Chennai Probe Exposes Foreign Currency Smuggling Network
In a separate but significant breakthrough, DRI officers in Chennai dismantled a sophisticated racket involving the illegal export of foreign currency through domestic air cargo consignments.
During searches at the Chennai Air Cargo Complex, officers recovered USD 758,500 and Thai Baht 3.5 million, collectively valued at approximately ₹8.15 crore.
Three persons allegedly involved in transporting and delivering the foreign currency were apprehended.
Investigators believe the foreign currency was being clandestinely smuggled out of India through various channels and subsequently used to finance organised imports of smuggled gold and silver into the country.
Bengaluru Arrest Reveals Complete Smuggling Chain
The investigation later led DRI officers to a suspected recipient of the illegally transferred foreign currency.
The individual was intercepted upon arrival at Bengaluru Airport from Dubai while carrying approximately 1.8 kilograms of foreign-origin gold.
Subsequent searches at his residence resulted in the recovery of:
- Around 42 kilograms of silver
- Approximately 700 grams of gold jewellery
- ₹26.67 lakh in Indian currency
According to investigators, these recoveries establish a direct operational link between the illegal movement of foreign currency from India, its utilisation abroad for procurement of precious metals, and the organised smuggling of gold and silver back into the country.
Sophisticated Smuggling Techniques Under Scanner
The investigations indicate that the smuggling syndicates relied on a combination of railway couriers, concealed body carriers, domestic air cargo routes and illegal processing facilities to evade law enforcement.
The use of multiple carriers travelling independently, customised concealment methods such as specially designed waist belts, and clandestine gold-melting units reflects the increasing sophistication of organised gold smuggling networks operating across India.
Overall Seizures
Across the multiple operations, DRI has seized:
- Nearly 9 kg of foreign-origin smuggled gold
- Around 42 kg of silver
- Foreign currency valued at approximately ₹8.15 crore
- ₹26.67 lakh in Indian currency
A total of eight persons have been arrested, and further investigations are underway to identify the international suppliers, domestic handlers, financiers and other members of the organised smuggling syndicates. Authorities are also probing possible links with cross-border money laundering and hawala networks used to finance the illegal trade in precious metals.
