Largest Gold Smuggling Attempt at Surat International Airport Foiled

Strategic Insights -

A middle-aged Gujarati couple arriving from Dubai at Surat International Airport on Air India Flight IX-174 was caught with 28 kilograms of gold paste hidden under their clothes. The incident, described as the biggest gold smuggling attempt in the airport's history, occurred on July 20. The couple's suspicious behavior and unusual walking pattern caught the attention of a plainclothes CISF intelligence officer, leading to a thorough investigation and the discovery of the concealed gold paste.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident is being referred to as the biggest gold smuggling attempt in the history of Surat International Airport.
  • The couple, arriving from Dubai, was carrying 28 kilograms of gold paste, with 16 kg on the woman and 12 kg on the man.
  • The gold paste was expertly strapped around their midsections and upper torsos to mimic natural body shapes, making detection difficult without close observation.
  • The CISF confirmed that the estimated pure gold recovery is over 20 kilograms based on paste concentration.
  • The successful operation was attributed to effective behavioral profiling and seamless coordination between CISF and Customs.
  • An investigation is currently underway to trace the origins and possible network behind the smuggling attempt.

Statistics:

  • 28 kilograms of gold paste was concealed by the couple.
  • 16 kg of gold paste was found on the woman.
  • 12 kg of gold paste was found on the man.
  • The estimated pure gold recovery is over 20 kilograms based on paste concentration.
  • The incident occurred on July 20.
  • The couple was intercepted at Surat International Airport's international arrivals area.

Sources:

  • A news wire agency
  • ANI
  • The CISF official statement
  • Times Content (for Reprint Rights)