DRI Cracks Down on Major Gold Smuggling Syndicate Across Delhi and Kolkata
In a significant enforcement action, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a sophisticated organised racket involved in the smuggling and illegal melting of gold. The operation, which spanned the cities of Delhi and Kolkata, resulted in the seizure of gold, silver, and cash collectively valued at an astounding Rs 14.13 crore. Additionally, six individuals have been apprehended in connection with this illicit network.
Details of the Seizure and Arrests
According to an official statement from the Ministry of Finance, the DRI uncovered a syndicate that was systematically smuggling foreign-origin gold into India. The contraband was transported via rail routes, melted at clandestine facilities to remove identifying markings, and then sold covertly in the domestic bullion market. The crackdown led to the confiscation of 8286.81 grams of gold, valued at Rs 13.41 crore, 7350.4 grams of silver worth Rs 19.67 lakh, and Indian currency amounting to Rs 51,74,100. All seizures were made under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
Operation Timeline and Key Interceptions
The operation commenced with specific intelligence that prompted DRI officers to intercept a passenger arriving from Kolkata at New Delhi Railway Station. This individual was found in possession of foreign-marked gold intended for delivery to a receiver outside the station. Both the carrier and the recipient were promptly arrested.
Following these initial arrests, further investigations and searches in Delhi revealed an illegal gold melting facility. This unit was being used to deface foreign-origin gold before its disposal in the local market. Additional quantities of gold, silver, and cash were recovered from this location, and the manager operating the facility was taken into custody.
Expansion to Kolkata and Mastermind Apprehension
The probe extended to Kolkata, where the mastermind behind the syndicate was traced to another illegal melting unit. This individual was apprehended along with two carriers, who confessed to receiving smuggled foreign-marked gold, melting it to erase markings, and planning its transportation to Delhi via rail for further distribution.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
All six persons involved in the smuggling, transportation, melting, and disposal of the gold have been arrested and produced before a competent court. The DRI has emphasized that further investigation is actively in progress to uncover any additional links or operations associated with this racket.
This crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to combat financial crimes and illegal trade activities that undermine the economy.
