Customs officials at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (SGRDJI) in Amritsar seized 484 grams of 24-carat gold worth Rs 70.66 lakh from a passenger who arrived from Melbourne via Kuala Lumpur late on Tuesday night, July 1, 2026. The passenger, a male traveller, was intercepted after arriving on Flight MH 118.
Details of the Seizure
Acting on suspicion, Customs officers subjected the passenger to a detailed examination, including X-ray screening and a personal search. During the search, officials recovered 484 grams of 24-carat gold in the form of two bangles and one chain. The estimated value of the seized gold is Rs 70,66,400.
Legal Action and Investigation
The Customs department stated that the gold has been confiscated under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. The passenger has been arrested, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the source and intended destination of the smuggled gold. Authorities are probing potential links to larger smuggling networks.
Context of Airport Security
This incident highlights ongoing efforts by Indian Customs to curb gold smuggling at international airports. Amritsar airport has been a focus point due to its connectivity to destinations like Melbourne and Kuala Lumpur. The seizure underscores the use of advanced screening techniques such as X-ray and personal searches to detect contraband concealed on passengers.
