New Delhi: Customs officials at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi seized undeclared foreign currency and luxury watches worth approximately ₹5.42 crore from a woman passenger during a major enforcement action.
Authorities said the items were not declared under customs regulations, following which a case was registered and an investigation was launched.
Suspicion During Arrival Leads to Detailed Search
Custom officials stated that the woman passenger had arrived at Terminal-3 from Hong Kong. She was stopped for questioning after security personnel found her behaviour suspicious during the arrival process. Following preliminary inquiry, her luggage was scanned using an X-ray scanner, and a detailed physical search was conducted, leading to the recovery of undeclared foreign currency and several expensive luxury watches.
According to officials, the seized items included foreign currencies from different countries along with high-end luxury brand watches. The total value of the recovered goods is estimated at around ₹5.42 crore. The customs department said continuous surveillance is being maintained at airports to prevent illegal currency movement and smuggling activities.
FCRF Launches Flagship Certified Fraud Investigator (CFI) Program
Investigation Focuses on Source and Intended Use
Investigators said the woman is being interrogated to determine the purpose of carrying the items. It is still unclear whether the seized foreign currency and watches were meant for personal use or were part of a commercial transaction.
Customs officials clarified that carrying foreign currency or valuable items exceeding the permitted limit without declaration during international travel is considered a violation of law. Passengers have been advised to check relevant regulations before travel and declare required items as per rules.
Heightened Surveillance at International Airports
Authorities also stated that modern scanning technology and intelligence monitoring systems are being used to curb smuggling and illegal financial transactions at airports. In recent years, airport security agencies have uncovered several similar cases involving attempts to smuggle currency or luxury goods through passengers.
The customs department has initiated further legal proceedings in the case. The woman passenger’s travel documents and history are also being examined. Officials said that if any criminal involvement is found during the investigation, action will be taken under relevant legal provisions.
Airport security agencies have appealed to passengers to follow customs regulations during international travel and avoid carrying undeclared or suspicious items. Officials emphasized that strict monitoring against smuggling and illegal financial activities will continue.
