Key Facts
Ahmedabad Customs officials have seized over 2.7 kilograms of gold, valued at approximately ₹4.26 crore, from an IndiGo aircraft arriving from Dubai. The gold was discovered hidden inside a speaker box in the front lavatory of the plane.
Details of the Seizure
The incident took place on IndiGo flight 6E-1478, which landed at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad from Dubai. Acting on intelligence, Customs officials conducted a thorough search with the assistance of aircraft engineers. During the inspection, they found 24 gold biscuits of 24-carat purity, weighing a total of 2,799.3 grams, concealed in black plastic tape inside the speaker box of the front lavatory.
Modus Operandi
A video released by ANI shows Customs officials detaching the wall-mounted speaker box and removing the gold biscuits neatly wrapped in black tape. Another clip shows officials ripping open the tape to reveal the gold bars. The manner of concealment suggests that the gold was placed there by an unknown person with the intent to smuggle it into India.
Legal Action
Since no one came forward to claim the gold, it was seized as unclaimed under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. Officials stated, The manner of concealment indicates that the gold was concealed by an unknown person with the intention of smuggling it into India in violation of the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. As no person came forward to claim the legal ownership of the seized gold, it was seized as unclaimed under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
Ahmedabad Customs has now launched a detailed investigation into the matter.
What Readers Should Know
- Gold smuggling attempts via aircraft lavatories are not uncommon; smugglers often hide contraband in hard-to-reach areas.
- Customs departments across Indian airports have stepped up surveillance and coordination with airline staff to detect such concealment.
- Passengers and crew are advised to report any suspicious activity or unattended items to authorities.
FAQ
How much gold was seized at Ahmedabad airport?
Customs officials seized 2,799.3 grams (about 2.7 kg) of gold worth approximately ₹4.26 crore.
Where was the gold hidden on the aircraft?
The gold was concealed inside the speaker box located in the front lavatory of the IndiGo aircraft.
Which flight was involved in the gold smuggling attempt?
The gold was found on IndiGo flight 6E-1478 arriving from Dubai at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad.
What action has been taken by Customs?
The gold was seized as unclaimed under the Customs Act, 1962, and a detailed investigation has been launched.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com