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Smuggling in India Report 2024-25 8

Case 7: Gold recovered from ight lavatory

In June 2024, DRI seized gold bars weighing 2.18 kg concealed inside the
aircraft lavatory. Investigations have since dismantled multiple syndicates
across India using similar concealment methods, exploiting insider staff.
These networks threaten both national security and flight safety, enabling
the smuggling of gold and potentially high-risk items such as narcotics,
explosives, or other contraband.

Case 8: Lucknow airport smuggling syndicate busted

In August 2024, DRI busted a syndicate smuggling gold from Bangkok and
foreign currency to Bangkok through Lucknow Airport, with the conniv-
ance of two airline ground staff, including a security coordinator. The staff
were found with 3 kg of smuggled gold that was retrieved by them from the
aircraft. Further, a linked passenger, whose baggage was facilitated by the
aforesaid ground staff, was also intercepted while boarding the same air-
craft on its return journey to Bangkok. Examination of his baggage led to
the recovery and seizure of $2,12,500 concealed in his baggage.

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