Mumbai Airport News: ₹14.8 Crore Gold Powder Mixed With Food Products Seized
Mumbai Airport News
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has arrested three Indian passengers after seizing 9.4 kg of foreign-origin gold worth around ₹14.81 crore at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.
The seizure revealed an unusual method allegedly used to smuggle gold into India. According to officials, the gold was converted into powder and mixed with common food products to make it difficult to detect.
The three passengers had arrived at Mumbai Airport from Dubai. Acting on intelligence about a suspected smuggling attempt, DRI officials stopped the passengers early Wednesday. The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Mumbai Customs also assisted the DRI team during the operation.
Officials searched the passengers’ luggage and found around 33.5 kg of food products. The items included milk powder, oats, rice flour, cake mix, Nutella and coconut milk powder.
During the examination, officials reportedly discovered that gold in powdered form had been mixed with some of these food products. The gold powder was allegedly similar in colour and texture to the contents of the packets, making it harder to identify during a normal inspection.
The recovered gold has been valued at approximately ₹14.81 crore, making it a major seizure at Mumbai Airport. The three passengers were arrested in connection with the alleged smuggling attempt.
The case highlights the different methods that are allegedly being used by smugglers to bring gold into the country. Instead of carrying gold in the form of jewellery or bars, the accused reportedly attempted to hide the metal by mixing it with everyday food products.
The DRI and Customs officials are now investigating the case to determine the source of the gold and the possible people involved in the smuggling network. Officials are also expected to examine the travel records and other details of the arrested passengers.
The passengers had travelled from Dubai, a route that is frequently monitored by Indian Customs and enforcement agencies for suspected smuggling attempts.
The investigation is continuing, and further details may emerge regarding how the gold was prepared, packed and transported. The seizure also demonstrates the role of intelligence-based checks and detailed luggage inspections in detecting unusual methods of alleged gold smuggling at international airports.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
