Delhi Airport News: Customs Seize Drones and Parts Worth Rs 1.03 Crore
Delhi Airport News
Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Delhi have seized drones and drone components with a total estimated market value of Rs 1.03 crore. The items were recovered from the baggage of three Indian passengers who arrived in Delhi from Hong Kong via Vietnam.
According to officials, the seizure was made during a search at Terminal 3 on September 25. Customs officers recovered several drones and a large number of related components from the passengers’ luggage.
The seized items included 10 Autel Robotics MDX-1 drones, 11 remote controllers, 10 AC/DC adapters, 10 USB chargers, 20 data cables, 60 propellers and 10 camera-equipped gimbals. Customs officials also seized an iPhone 18 Pro Max with 512GB storage.
A chartered engineer examined the drones and identified them as professional and defence-grade unmanned aerial vehicles. Officials said the drones were equipped with features such as thermal imaging and laser range-finder capabilities.
Customs authorities also pointed out that registration with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is mandatory for such drones.
The total market value of the seized drones, components and mobile phone has been estimated at Rs 1,03,55,900. The goods were seized under Section 110(1) of the Customs Act.
During questioning, the three passengers reportedly told officials that they had brought the drones from Hong Kong for a friend. The items were allegedly imported into India without being declared to customs authorities.
The customs department has started a further investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the import of the drones and determine whether other people were involved.
The seizure comes amid increased scrutiny of items being brought into India through international airports. Customs officials continue to check passengers and baggage for undeclared goods and items that require specific permissions or registrations.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses and authorities examine the passengers’ travel records and other relevant information.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
