Major Seizure at Coimbatore Airport: Cigarettes and Electronics Worth Rs 65.99 Lakh Confiscated
In a significant crackdown, the Central Intelligence Unit (CIU) conducted a special search operation at the Coimbatore International Airport, resulting in the seizure of goods valued at approximately Rs 65.99 lakh. The operation targeted passengers arriving from international flights, leading to the confiscation of a large quantity of cigarettes and refurbished electronic devices.
Details of the Seizure Operation
The CIU sleuths carried out intensive searches on February 11 and 12, focusing on passengers who had traveled from Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. During this operation, authorities intercepted 11 individuals and discovered a substantial haul of contraband items. The seized goods included 3.48 lakh cigarettes, 895 e-cigarettes, 21 refurbished laptops, and four refurbished mobile phones.
All these items were brought into the country without proper documentation, leading to immediate legal action. A case has been registered against the passengers for violating customs regulations by attempting to import goods without declaring them or obtaining the necessary permits.
Value and Implications of the Confiscated Goods
The total value of the seized items amounts to Rs 65.99 lakh, highlighting the scale of this smuggling attempt. This seizure underscores ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to curb illegal imports and enforce strict customs controls at airports. Such operations are crucial for preventing the influx of unauthorized goods that can evade taxes and pose health or security risks.
The confiscation of e-cigarettes is particularly notable, as these products are subject to stringent regulations in India due to health concerns. Additionally, the refurbished electronics, including laptops and mobile phones, may have been intended for resale in the black market, bypassing quality checks and warranty requirements.
Legal Actions and Broader Context
Following the seizure, the CIU has initiated legal proceedings against the 11 passengers involved. They face charges related to smuggling and failure to comply with import documentation rules. This incident serves as a reminder of the vigilance exercised by airport authorities in monitoring international travel and preventing illicit trade activities.
Coimbatore International Airport, being a key entry point in Tamil Nadu, has seen increased surveillance in recent times to tackle such violations. The successful operation reflects the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between intelligence units and airport security personnel in safeguarding national borders and economic interests.
