Customs officers at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, have arrested an Indian passenger in an alleged precious stones smuggling case following recoveries from his baggage, person and premises associated with him. The total value of the goods seized stands at ₹2,02,54,400.
According to the Customs update, officers intercepted the male passenger at Terminal 3 on October 3, 2026, based on spot profiling. He had arrived from Bangkok on Air India flight AI-2303, dated October 2, 2026.
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A detailed examination of his baggage and a personal search led to the recovery of 3,200 pieces of precious stones and jewellery items valued at ₹1,01,54,600. During questioning, the passenger admitted to bringing the goods from Bangkok to Delhi, the update stated.
The airport interception prompted a follow-up investigation, during which Customs officers searched premises associated with the passenger. The search resulted in the recovery of 196.676 kg of rough emeralds, 221 carats of cut and polished rubies, and 45 carats of cut and polished emeralds. Officers also recovered relevant documents and other items.
The combined value of the goods seized during the airport interception and the subsequent search was assessed at ₹2,02,54,400.
Customs seized the goods under Section 110 of the Customs Act, 1962, and arrested the passenger under Section 104 of the Act.
Further investigation into the alleged smuggling case is underway.
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