Mumbai: Mumbai Customs has busted a major gold smuggling racket at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, one of India’s busiest aviation hubs. In a series of targeted operations carried out over three days, customs officials seized a large quantity of 24-carat gold with an estimated market value of ₹2.89 crore. The seizures, made between December 15 and December 17, 2025, point towards a well-organised smuggling network involving transit passengers and suspected airport insiders.
Cleverly Concealed Gold Dust Detected During Screening
According to Mumbai Customs officials, smugglers attempted to illegally bring 2.270 kilograms of 24-carat gold dust into the country using sophisticated concealment techniques. The gold was packed in a manner designed to evade routine security checks. However, heightened vigilance by screening personnel led to the detection of the concealed consignment. Acting swiftly, customs officers intercepted the carriers and confiscated the gold under the provisions of the Customs Act.
Officials said the operation highlights the increasing use of unconventional forms such as gold dust instead of traditional bars or jewellery to bypass detection systems at airports.
Gold Recovered in Three Separate Smuggling Incidents
Customs authorities confirmed that the seizures were made across three separate cases registered during the period. Apart from the 2.270 kg of gold dust, officials also recovered 230 grams of 24-carat gold, valued at approximately ₹29.35 lakh. The cases involved transit passengers as well as individuals with access to restricted airport areas, raising serious concerns over internal collusion.
Investigators believe the use of multiple carriers and staggered movements was aimed at reducing risk and avoiding large single-point seizures.
Drug Trafficking Angle Emerges
During the same enforcement drive, customs officials uncovered another serious offence. A passenger arriving from Bangkok was intercepted with 8.467 kilograms of hydroponic cannabis (hydroponic weed) concealed in his baggage. The seizure has added a drug trafficking dimension to the investigation, prompting coordination with other enforcement and intelligence agencies.
Officials said preliminary findings suggest possible international linkages, and further investigation is underway to identify handlers and overseas suppliers.
Five Arrested, Probe Widens
So far, five individuals have been arrested in connection with the gold and drug smuggling cases. Customs officials stated that the accused are being questioned to uncover the full extent of the network, including financiers, logistics handlers and potential airport facilitators.
“The nature of concealment and repeated attempts indicate the involvement of an organised syndicate operating over a prolonged period,” a senior customs official said. Authorities have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation progresses.
What Are the Rules for Bringing Gold into India?
Customs officials have once again reiterated the rules governing the import of gold into India. Under the Customs Act, 1962, and guidelines issued by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Indian male passengers are allowed to bring up to 20 grams of gold jewellery, subject to a maximum value of ₹50,000, while female passengers may bring up to 40 grams, with a value cap of ₹1 lakh, duty-free.
This exemption applies strictly to gold jewellery and does not cover gold bars, coins, biscuits or gold dust. Additionally, to qualify for the concession, a passenger must hold a valid Indian passport and must have resided abroad continuously for at least six months.
Customs Tighten Surveillance at Airports
Officials described the operation as one of the most significant gold smuggling interceptions at Mumbai airport in recent months. In response to the rising number of smuggling attempts, customs authorities have intensified surveillance, enhanced profiling mechanisms and strengthened coordination with airport security agencies.
“The focus is on preventing misuse of transit routes and eliminating internal vulnerabilities,” officials said, adding that advanced screening technologies and intelligence-based checks will continue in the coming days.
