The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) executed a meticulously planned and well-coordinated operation to dismantle a syndicate engaged in the smuggling of foreign-origin gold through land and train routes. This operation, conducted across three distinct locations, resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of smuggled gold, weighing approximately 31.7 kilograms and valued at around Rs. 19 crores. The events unfolded on the 13th and 14th of October in 2023, and showcased the DRI’s remarkable effectiveness in tackling such illicit activities.
The Nagpur branch of the DRI played a pivotal role in this operation by acting on specific intelligence. They apprehended two individuals carrying gold as they disembarked at Nagpur railway station. These individuals had boarded a train originating from Kolkata. Upon a thorough inspection, the DRI team successfully recovered 8.5 kilograms of foreign-marked gold from the suspects. Subsequent interrogation of the carriers led to the identification and apprehension of two individuals involved in receiving the smuggled gold.
Meanwhile, the Varanasi DRI team managed to apprehend two of the accused along with their vehicle while they were travelling through Uttar Pradesh. The pursuit of the suspects turned into a dramatic three-hour chase on the road, culminating in a search operation inside a forest, with the valuable assistance of local law enforcement. During this operation, a significant haul of approximately 18.2 kilograms of gold was discovered, concealed within a specially designed cavity located beneath the handbrake of the suspects’ car.
The success of this operation reflects the DRI’s dedication to disrupting the activities of gold smuggling syndicates, particularly those exploiting land and train routes for their illicit operations. The timely and precise action taken by the DRI teams in Varanasi, Nagpur, and Mumbai underscore their commitment to protecting the nation’s economic security and preventing the flow of contraband.
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