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Mumbai Customs Foils Multiple Smuggling Attempts, Arrests 4 Persons

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Mumbai Customs officials thwarted multiple smuggling attempts at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Saturday, resulting in the arrest of four persons and the seizure of items worth over Rs 11 crore, including hydroponic marijuana, exotic wildlife species, and gold. The officials acted on specific intelligence and intercepted Indian nationals who arrived from Bangkok and Dubai, leading to the recovery of contraband in each case. The seizures highlight the ongoing efforts of Mumbai Customs to combat smuggling and protect national interests.

Key Takeaways:

  • Four persons were arrested by Mumbai Customs officials at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Saturday for attempting to smuggle various contraband items.
  • The customs officials intercepted an Indian national who arrived from Bangkok, seizing 9.662 kilograms of hydroponic marijuana with an estimated value of Rs 9.662 crore in the illicit market.
  • The passenger was arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
  • Another passenger from Bangkok was arrested for carrying exotic and non-native species, including raccoons, black fox squirrels, and green iguanas, which were concealed in their bag.
  • The live animals were handed over to airline staff for deportation to their country of origin.
  • Legal proceedings were initiated against the arrested passengers under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Customs Act, 1962.
  • Two passengers from Dubai were found smuggling 24 KT gold in dust form and small pieces weighing a total of 1.650 kg and valued at Rs 1.49 crore.
  • The gold was hidden in their body cavities and inner pockets.
  • Both passengers were arrested under the Customs Act, 1962.

Statistics:

  • Total value of seized items: Rs 11 crore
  • Quantity of hydroponic marijuana seized: 9.662 kilograms
  • Estimated value of hydroponic marijuana in the illicit market: Rs 9.662 crore
  • Number of exotic and non-native species seized: raccoons (4), black fox squirrels (3), and green iguanas (37)
  • Weight of 24 KT gold seized: 1.650 kg
  • Value of seized gold: Rs 1.49 crore

Sources:

  • "Multiple smuggling attempts foiled by Customs officials at Mumbai airport, 4 arrests made" (Express News Service)
  • Customs Act, 1962 (Government of India)
  • Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 (Government of India)
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Government of India)

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