Kannauj: A major alleged gold smuggling network operating through Nepal has come under investigation after two men were arrested in Kannauj with a 10-kg consignment of gold. During questioning, the accused allegedly revealed that they had brought gold from Nepal into India around six times over the past three months. According to the information provided during the investigation, the total value of these consignments was around ₹100 crore. The gold was allegedly transported to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and other states, while payments were reportedly routed back to suppliers in Nepal.
The Customs Department produced both accused before a court on Monday, following which they were sent to jail. Investigating agencies are now examining the alleged network’s suppliers, delivery channels, bullion traders and financial transactions.
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Gold Smuggling Network Came to Light After Car Collision
The case came to light on August 22 when a car collided with a police vehicle in Kannauj. During a subsequent search, gold bars were allegedly recovered from the vehicle. The two occupants, identified as Sandeep Jaiswal of Maharajganj and Saroj Panth, a Nepalese national, were detained after approximately 10 kg of gold was found.
The Customs team brought both accused to Lucknow for further questioning. Preliminary investigation indicated that the consignment was allegedly being transported to Delhi. Agencies are now trying to determine who was supposed to receive the gold in Delhi and where it was to be sent afterward.
Six Consignments Allegedly Transported in Three Months
During questioning, the accused allegedly told investigators that they had transported gold from Nepal to India six times in the previous three months. According to their statements, the consignments were collectively worth around ₹100 crore.
The gold was allegedly brought into India by road from Nepal. Investigators are examining the suspected routes, border-crossing points, delivery locations and individuals associated with each consignment. They are also trying to determine where the earlier consignments were ultimately distributed.
Gold Allegedly Reached Nepal From Gulf Countries
The investigation has also indicated that the gold consignments were allegedly first brought to Nepal from Gulf countries. From there, they were reportedly transported into India by road.
Agencies are examining the possible role of suppliers based in Nepal and their contacts in India to establish the complete supply chain. Investigators are also looking into the alleged payments made to individuals involved in transporting the gold.
According to the information emerging from the probe, carriers involved in the alleged smuggling operation were reportedly paid between ₹1 lakh and ₹2 lakh per trip. This has raised the possibility that different couriers were being used to move consignments across the border.
Links With Bullion Traders Under Investigation
Investigators have found indications of possible links between the alleged smuggling network and several bullion traders. Authorities are now examining who allegedly received the gold after it entered India and how payments for the consignments were made.
The Customs Department and other agencies are expected to examine the accused persons’ mobile phones, contact lists, travel records and financial transactions. These details could help investigators establish links between suppliers, couriers, intermediaries and alleged end buyers.
Border Security Also Under Scrutiny
The alleged movement of gold into India through road routes from Nepal has also raised questions about border surveillance. Investigators are examining the routes allegedly used by the smugglers and how their movements may have avoided detection by security agencies.
Sandeep Jaiswal and Saroj Panth have been sent to jail, while the investigation into the alleged smuggling operation continues. Authorities are now attempting to identify the alleged main suppliers, recipients of the gold consignments and bullion traders who may have been connected with the network. The legality and source of the recovered 10 kg of gold, as well as the claims made during questioning, will be established through further investigation and examination of the available evidence.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
