The Preventive Wing of Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs through Trichy Customs (Preventive Commissionerate) has carried out a significant recovery operation in Ramanad district, seizing silver bars, gold, and a motorcycle allegedly linked to smuggling activities.
According to information shared by the Commissionerate, the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU) conducted the operation on 9 May 2026 and recovered approximately 12.880 kilograms of silver in the form of 19 bars, valued at nearly ₹34.77 lakh. Along with the silver, officials also recovered 90 grams of gold valued at approximately ₹13.37 lakh.
The department further stated that a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 motorcycle worth around ₹1 lakh was also seized during the operation. The vehicle is suspected to have been used in connection with the transportation of the precious metals.
Photographs released by the department showed multiple silver bars wrapped and marked with identification numbers, along with a small gold piece and the seized motorcycle. The materials were displayed as part of the official seizure documentation prepared by the Customs authorities.
The seizure highlights the continuing vigilance by Customs preventive formations in Tamil Nadu against the illegal movement and suspected smuggling of precious metals. Authorities have been intensifying intelligence-based operations across coastal and southern regions amid concerns over organized smuggling networks attempting to move high-value commodities through informal channels.
Officials have not yet disclosed details regarding arrests or the exact modus operandi involved in the case. Further investigation is understood to be underway to determine the origin of the seized metals and identify the persons connected with the alleged operation.
The action forms part of broader enforcement measures being undertaken by Customs authorities to curb illicit trade and protect revenue interests.
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