Mumbai: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has seized 29.37 kg of gold worth ₹37.74 crore from 24 women at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, uncovering one of the biggest smuggling rackets at the airport this year.
Acting on specific intelligence, the DRI’s Mumbai Zonal Unit launched a targeted operation codenamed “Operation Dhahabu Blitz” on Wednesday. Officials said the tip-off indicated that a group of women arriving from Nairobi were carrying concealed gold.
All 24 foreign nationals were intercepted upon arrival, leading to the recovery of 25.1 kg of gold bars and 4.27 kg of gold jewellery hidden in their baggage and clothing.
Investigators believe the operation points to a well-organised smuggling syndicate, with the women reportedly trained to conceal gold and evade airport security checks.
The accused are set to be produced before a court, while further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the masterminds behind the racket.
