Surat: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) detained two men at Surat airport on Wednesday night and seized six kilograms of smuggled gold from their possession. The suspects, who arrived on a flight from Sharjah, reportedly intended to deliver the gold within the city.

According to DRI sources, officials acted on a tip-off regarding passengers smuggling gold from Sharjah to Surat. A surveillance team was stationed at the airport, and around 1 a.m., DRI officials intercepted two suspects, identified as Vipul Sheldiya and Abhay. When questioned, the men gave unclear responses, prompting a thorough search. Upon inspection, officials found the gold, valued at approximately ₹4.72 crore, concealed in form of paste inside their undergarments. The suspects were later presented in court.

This arrest comes despite a recent reduction in gold import duty from 15% to 6% in FY 2024-25, a measure intended to curb smuggling. Officials suspect the accused were acting as couriers, transporting the gold into India for undisclosed contacts. With the ongoing wedding season increasing demand for gold, authorities remain vigilant against further smuggling attempts. DeshGujarat