Four Customs officials posted with the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad have been suspended following complaints by two passengers who alleged that officials took away a packet containing 600 grams of gold biscuits and demanded money.
The suspended officials are Superintendents Vinay Arora and Kuldeep Paliwal, and Inspectors Bharat Meena and Kaushal Kishore. The action is reportedly linked to procedural violations, including failure to use body-worn cameras and make required entries in the investigation register.
Passengers Questioned for Nearly Three Hours
The incident took place on September 4, when two residents of Surat district, aged around 30 to 35, arrived from Dubai on Emirates flight EK 538 at around 3am.AIU officials reportedly questioned and searched the passengers for nearly three hours before allowing them to leave at around 6.30am.At about 7am, one of the passengers allegedly approached a senior Customs official and complained that the four personnel had taken a packet containing gold and demanded money.
Body Cameras Not Used During Inquiry
A subsequent inspection of the investigation room reportedly found a pair of trousers. During the inquiry, the officials admitted that they had not used body-worn cameras while questioning the passengers.Customs authorities are examining CCTV footage and recording statements as part of the investigation.
Conflicting Accounts Over Gold Recovery
The passengers and the AIU officials have reportedly given conflicting accounts regarding the alleged recovery of gold.The department is examining the available evidence, including CCTV footage and statements, to establish what happened during the early-morning inspection.