Mumbai, March 14: In a significant crackdown on foreign currency and diamond smuggling, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized approximately ₹3 crore worth of foreign currency and diamonds at Mumbai Airport. Six individuals, including a hawala operator, have been arrested in connection with this case.
The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence received by DRI officials. Reports indicate that four passengers were preparing to board an international flight when authorities intercepted them for a search. During the investigation, a thorough examination of their bags revealed hidden compartments in handbags containing foreign currency and diamonds. The recovered foreign currency included British Pounds (GBP) and US Dollars (USD) in various denominations, with an estimated total value of around ₹1.93 crore.
Additionally, 53 small pouches of diamonds were found among the passengers’ belongings, valued at approximately ₹1.10 crore. In total, the seized foreign currency and diamonds amount to nearly ₹3 crore. During questioning, the passengers failed to declare these foreign currencies and diamonds to customs and could not provide any valid documents or permits for their export.
Following this, the DRI confiscated the foreign currency and diamonds. Further investigations led to the arrest of the hawala operator who arranged the foreign currency, as well as the individual who delivered the money to the passengers.
The DRI has arrested a total of six individuals under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, and the investigation is ongoing. DRI officials stated their commitment to dismantling the network of hawala operators and smugglers that poses a serious threat to the country’s economic security.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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