Smuggling Hidden in Underwear, Customs Seizes Gold Worth 9.6 Million
Customs officials at Ahmedabad airport intercepted a passenger smuggling gold worth 9.6 million rupees hidden in his underwear and wallet.
Customs officials at Ahmedabad airport caught a passenger arriving from Dubai attempting to smuggle gold worth 9.6 million rupees, cleverly hidden in his underwear and wallet. The incident occurred on February 8, 2026, when the Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) was on high alert for suspicious individuals after the arrival of a SpiceJet flight. The passenger, initially trying to appear calm, showed signs of nervousness which prompted the officials to conduct a thorough search.
During the search, officials discovered hidden gold biscuits concealed in both his wallet and underwear, leading to his arrest. The gold was found to be 24 karats and valued in millions of rupees. Following the seizure, the passenger was charged under the Customs Act of 1962, and further investigations were initiated to probe into his smuggling activities and possible links to larger smuggling rings.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of gold smuggling at Indian airports, particularly from international destinations like Dubai, where gold is heavily sought after. The customs department continues to strengthen its profiling and surveillance mechanisms to curb such illegal activities, emphasizing their commitment to preventing smuggling and maintaining national security. This case serves as a crucial reminder of the lengths to which traffickers may go to evade detection.