In a joint operation, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and Customs officials at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport seized undeclared foreign currency worth ₹50.62 lakh from a passenger headed to Dubai on Tuesday.
Acting on a specific intelligence input, officers intercepted an Indian national preparing to board IndiGo flight 6E-1477. On inspecting his baggage, officials found €30,000 and US $22,500 concealed in a checked suitcase, wrapped in black adhesive tape.
Officials said the concealment method indicated a planned smuggling attempt, possibly linked to a hawala or illegal remittance network. The passenger had not declared the currency as required under law.
The currency was seized under the Customs Act, 1962, and relevant provisions of FEMA, 2016. The passenger has been detained for questioning, and investigations are underway to trace the source of the money and possible links in Dubai.