DRI Busts Gold Smuggling Racket: 5.832 kg Seized Near Visakhapatnam, Two Arrested

Officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on [date] intercepted a car near Visakhapatnam and seized 5.832 kilograms of gold, valued at approximately ₹8.98 crore. Two persons were arrested in connection with the smuggling operation. The vehicle was traveling from Kolkata to Hyderabad when it was stopped, and the gold is suspected to have been smuggled into India through the India-Bangladesh border.

The DRI acted on specific intelligence inputs, leading to the interception. The seized gold, in the form of bars and jewelry, was concealed in specially designed compartments within the car. Preliminary investigations suggest the gold was sourced from Myanmar or other Southeast Asian countries and routed through Bangladesh before entering India. The arrested individuals are believed to be part of a larger smuggling network, and further investigations are underway to identify other members. The value of the seizure is significant, highlighting the persistent challenge of gold smuggling despite tightened border controls.

This seizure underscores the DRI's ongoing efforts to combat economic offenses and protect national revenue. Gold smuggling not only drains foreign exchange reserves but also fuels illegal activities. The DRI is expected to seek custody of the accused to unravel the entire chain of the smuggling racket. The incident may prompt increased vigilance along the India-Bangladesh border and enhanced coordination among law enforcement agencies. Further updates are awaited as the investigation progresses.