Ahmedabad Customs Thwarts Gold Smuggling Attempt Using Swallowed Capsules
In a significant operation, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Ahmedabad Customs successfully intercepted a passenger arriving from Abu Dhabi on Saturday for attempting to smuggle gold by swallowing it, according to official statements. This incident underscores the agency's heightened vigilance against illicit activities at international borders.
Details of the Interception and Passenger Identification
The passenger, identified as Sharukh, landed at Ahmedabad airport on February 19 via Air Arabia flight 3L 111. Officials acted swiftly based on APIS profiling, a system used for advanced passenger information screening, which flagged suspicious behavior. During initial questioning, Sharukh confessed to concealing items within his body, prompting immediate legal action.
Following an order from the Chief Judicial Magistrate in Ahmedabad, Sharukh was admitted to Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, for a thorough medical examination and further investigation. This step was crucial to ensure a safe and lawful retrieval process.
Medical Examination Reveals Concealed Items
The medical examination conducted at the hospital revealed that Sharukh had swallowed three cylindrical yellow capsules and one steel-colored spherical ball. These items were later retrieved during a stool pass, highlighting the lengths to which smugglers go to evade detection.
Subsequent analysis by the Government Valuer confirmed that the three cylindrical capsules contained 135.2 grams of 24-carat gold, with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 21.89 lakh. The fourth capsule was determined to be made of ferrous metal, indicating a mix of materials in the smuggling attempt.
Seizure and Legal Implications Under Customs Act
All items, including the gold and the non-precious metal capsule, were seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. This action was taken because the passenger attempted to bring these undeclared valuables into India without proper declaration, violating customs regulations.
This operation serves as a stark reminder of Ahmedabad Customs' commitment to maintaining strict vigilance against smuggling attempts. It emphasizes the risks involved in such illegal activities and the consequences faced by those who try to bypass legal channels.
The successful interception not only prevents financial loss but also reinforces the importance of advanced profiling techniques and inter-agency cooperation in combating cross-border crimes. Authorities continue to monitor such activities closely to protect national interests and uphold the integrity of customs procedures.
