High-End Drones Worth Rs 23.4 Lakh Seized at Amritsar International Airport
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, in a coordinated operation with the Air Intelligence Unit of Customs, has made a significant seizure at Sri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar. Authorities confiscated four advanced DJI Matrice 4T model drones, with an estimated market value of Rs 23.4 lakh, from a passenger who arrived from Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.
Details of the Seizure and Investigation
According to an official statement released by the DRI on Thursday, the drones were discovered during routine checks and were being transported by a passenger who had just landed from the Malaysian capital. The DJI Matrice 4T is a high-end, professional-grade drone known for its advanced capabilities, including thermal imaging and high-resolution photography, often used in industrial, surveillance, and commercial applications.
An official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, provided critical insights into the motivations behind such illegal import attempts. He explained that advanced drone models like the Matrice series are readily available in international markets such as Kuala Lumpur, where regulatory restrictions are minimal and prices are substantially lower compared to India.
Regulatory Challenges and Price Disparities in India
The officer elaborated on the strict regulatory environment in India, which significantly impacts the availability and cost of foreign-manufactured drones. In India, the import and sale of such equipment face rigorous regulations, limited availability, and higher costs due to import duties and compliance requirements. This creates a scenario where drones are far more expensive domestically.
He further highlighted that the sharp price difference between international markets and India often serves as a strong incentive for individuals to attempt illegal imports, bypassing legal channels to avoid high costs and regulatory hurdles. This seizure underscores ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to curb such activities and enforce compliance with import laws.
The DRI and Customs AIU continue to monitor and investigate such cases to prevent the unauthorized entry of restricted or high-value goods into the country. This incident serves as a reminder of the vigilance maintained at Indian airports to safeguard economic and security interests.
