The accused from Oman and UAE were caught with over 21 kg of gold hidden in customized waist belts
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has arrested two foreign nationals at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport for allegedly smuggling gold worth ₹18.92 crore. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials intercepted the passengers arriving from Dubai on an Emirates flight, reported indianexpress.com.
The arrested individuals were identified as Salem Abdulla Alshamshi (33), a UAE national, and Alshamshi Abdullah Hmed (38) from Oman. They were apprehended near the exit gate after crossing the customs green channel.
The gold was concealed in specially designed waist belts, with over 21 kg recovered from the two accused
Upon conducting a personal search, DRI officials discovered 21 gold bars and a cut piece of foreign-origin gold concealed in custom-made waist belts. Salem was found carrying 10.302 kg of gold, while Hmed had 10.986 kg.
The DRI is now investigating the larger smuggling syndicate, including its operations in Mumbai and possible international connections. Officials are also probing the use of hawala networks for the illegal transfer of funds linked to the smuggled gold.
Both accused have been arrested under Sections 104 and 135 of the Customs Act, which pertain to the illegal import of goods and evasion of customs duty.
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