IGI Customs Arrest Bahrain Passengers with 1.94 kg Gold Hidden in Trolley Bags

TDT | Manama

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A major gold smuggling attempt was thwarted by the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Customs at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi. During the night shift between January 12 and 13, officials seized 1.94 kg of gold, valued at ₹14,170,531 (approximately 63,900 Bahraini Dinars), concealed within trolley bags.

The passengers, who arrived from Bahrain on Gulf Air flight GF-134 on January 12, 2025, were intercepted in the Arrival Hall. Acting on intelligence inputs, the Customs officials uncovered the cleverly concealed gold during a thorough inspection.

The first passenger, a 38-year-old Indian male, was found carrying 15 silver-colored metal wires hidden inside the linings of his trolley bags. These wires, which weighed 1,528 grams, were made of gold and valued at ₹11,115,283 (approximately 50,100 BHD). The concealment was designed to evade detection, but the keen eye of the AIU officers ensured the smuggling attempt was foiled.

The second passenger, a 34-year-old Indian female, adopted a similar method, concealing four silver-colored metal wires in her trolley bags. These wires weighed 420 grams and were valued at ₹3,055,248 (approximately 13,800 BHD). The close resemblance in their methods suggests a coordinated operation.

The combined seizure amounted to 1.948 kg of gold, with a total value of ₹14,170,531 (approximately 63,900 BHD).

The Customs Department registered a case against the passengers under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. Both individuals are currently in custody, and investigations are underway to trace the origins of the smuggling attempt and any connections to larger syndicates.

Speaking on the success of the operation, a senior Customs official stated, “The passengers employed highly deceptive techniques to smuggle gold, but our officers’ expertise and vigilance proved instrumental in detecting the contraband. This operation underscores the importance of robust security measures to curb smuggling.”

Gold smuggling remains a significant concern in India, driven by high import duties and strong domestic demand. IGI Airport, a key international hub, often becomes a focal point for such illicit activities.