Mumbai – The Directorate General of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Friday carried out a major operation at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), uncovering an international gold smuggling syndicate under ‘Operation Golden Sweep’. A total of 13 individuals have been arrested, including foreign nationals, airport staff, and the mastermind behind the network.
According to DRI officials, the seized haul included 10.488 kilograms of 24-carat foreign gold, with an estimated market value of approximately ₹12.58 crore. Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate had been using Mumbai Airport as a transit hub for international gold smuggling for an extended period.
Modus Operandi of the Syndicate
Investigations have revealed that the syndicate exploited transit passengers traveling to destinations such as Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, and Dhaka. These passengers, acting as carriers, concealed gold inside egg-shaped wax capsules within their bodies. Upon arrival in Mumbai, the carriers secretly handed over the gold to complicit airport staff, who then transported it to handlers and receivers connected to the mastermind.
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Involvement of Airport Staff
The DRI press release highlighted the active role of airport personnel in facilitating the smuggling operations. Staff members collaborated with the mastermind to ensure the gold was discreetly removed from airport premises and delivered to the international network. Officials emphasized that such smuggling operations involve sophisticated methods and planning, making detection and interception challenging.
International Network and Mastermind
Sources indicate that the syndicate was orchestrated from Mumbai and Dubai, with the mastermind coordinating a network of passengers, airport employees, and associated operatives. The syndicate’s goal was to streamline the smuggling of gold to international markets.
The DRI described the operation as a significant success, noting that it exposes the complexities of international gold smuggling and identifies potential gaps in airport security. Authorities stressed that operations like this are vital to preventing future smuggling attempts and strengthening airport security protocols.
Key Highlights
- Total Arrests: 13 (foreign nationals, airport staff, mastermind)
- Gold Seized: 10.488 kg, estimated value ~₹12.58 crore
- Smuggling Method: Gold concealed in wax capsules carried internally by passengers
- Syndicate Operations: Mumbai and Dubai
- Airport Staff Involvement: Confirmed
This case underscores the seriousness of international gold smuggling and the critical role of intelligence and security agencies in combating such crimes. The DRI termed the operation a landmark success and reiterated its commitment to curbing cross-border smuggling activities.
