Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport have arrested a passenger arriving from Dubai after recovering smuggled gold worth Rs 1.37 crore concealed inside capsules.
The accused has been identified as K Majeed, a native of Kannur district in Kerala.
Gold hidden in capsules
According to customs officials, Majeed was intercepted upon his arrival from Dubai on Wednesday based on suspicion. During a detailed inspection, officers recovered four capsules containing 24-carat gold that had allegedly been concealed to evade customs checks.
The seized gold was valued at approximately Rs 1.37 crore.
Officials said the concealment method indicated a deliberate attempt to smuggle the precious metal into the country without declaration.
Passenger arrested
Following the seizure, customs authorities arrested the passenger under the provisions of the Customs Act.
A case has been registered and further investigation is underway to determine the origin of the gold and identify possible links to organised smuggling networks operating between the Gulf region and India.
Authorities on high alert
Officials noted that gold smuggling attempts often increase when market prices fluctuate sharply. They said surveillance measures at airports have been strengthened to detect new concealment techniques used by smugglers.
Customs authorities stated that investigations are also focused on tracing the intended recipients of the contraband and uncovering any larger syndicate involved in the operation.
The seizure adds to a series of recent gold smuggling cases detected at major Indian airports.