In a major crackdown, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has smashed an alleged international gold smuggling network with roots in Bangladesh and Dubai. The sophisticated operation, carried out simultaneously in Agartala, Tripura, and the national capital Delhi, led to the recovery of a massive haul of foreign-origin gold and a large sum of cash.
Coordinated Raids Uncover Massive Haul
The breakthrough came on Thursday, as officials from the Tripura home department revealed details of the meticulously planned action. Based on specific intelligence inputs, DRI teams moved in on multiple locations. The total seizure amounted to over 29 kilograms of foreign-origin gold, valued at more than Rs 40 crore. Alongside the precious metal, officials confiscated cash amounting to Rs 2.9 crore found at two different spots.
Within Agartala itself, the operation zeroed in on the Shantipara and Dhaleshwar areas. Here, the authorities recovered approximately 14.2 kg of gold biscuits, worth around Rs 19 crore, and Indian currency totaling Rs 2.87 crore. The gold bore distinct international refinery markings, confirming its foreign origin.
Delhi Link and Smuggling Modus Operandi
The syndicate's reach extended to Delhi, where a key interception was made. On January 6, a suspected member of the network was detained at a domestic logistics facility in Delhi. He was allegedly receiving two shipments that had originated from Agartala.
Upon inspection, this consignment yielded another 15 kg of foreign-origin gold, estimated to be worth Rs 20.73 crore. The DRI's investigation points to a well-oiled smuggling route. The syndicate is believed to have used the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura as an entry point for the gold. Once inside the country, the contraband was discreetly moved using domestic cargo services to major distribution hubs like Delhi.
International Handlers and Local Fronts
Preliminary findings suggest the operation had an elaborate structure involving overseas and local players. Investigators indicate that handlers based in Bangladesh and Dubai were orchestrating the smuggling activities. On the ground in Agartala, the network is suspected to have utilized local employees managing jewellery stores, potentially using these businesses as fronts to integrate the smuggled gold into the legitimate market.
This successful operation by the DRI highlights the ongoing challenges of cross-border smuggling and the sophisticated methods employed by syndicates. The seizure of such a large quantity of gold and cash represents a significant financial blow to the illicit network and underscores the agency's vigilance on eastern border routes.
