The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has uncovered an organised gold smuggling network at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai. In a coordinated operation, officers intercepted 24 foreign nationals, mostly female carriers arriving from Nairobi, and seized 29.37 kg of gold worth Rs 37.74 crore. The action exposed a structured syndicate using trained couriers and planned movement of contraband to evade customs checks.
Operation Dhahabu Blitz
The crackdown was carried out under Operation Dhahabu Blitz. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers identified suspicious passengers linked to the smuggling network. The carriers were stopped soon after arrival and subjected to detailed examination.
Seizure Details
The recovered gold included:
- 25.10 kg of gold bars.
- 4.27 kg of gold jewellery.
- Total seizure – 29.37 kg.
- Estimated value – Rs 37.74 crore.
The seizure indicates the scale and sophistication of the operation.
Modus Operandi
The case suggests the use of a highly organised syndicate. Such networks often rely on trained carriers, split consignments, and coordinated travel routes to reduce detection risk. The use of foreign nationals in this case marks the cross-border nature of the smuggling chain.
Significance for Enforcement
Gold smuggling affects customs revenue, financial integrity, and border security. It also supports illegal trade networks that can be linked to wider organised crime. The operation reflects the role of intelligence-led enforcement in disrupting such syndicates and protecting economic interests.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026