Customs officials intercept traveller arriving from Riyadh; gold concealed in clothing
New Delhi (Economy India): Customs officials at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Delhi, have seized approximately 200 grams of gold hidden inside the jeans of a passenger who arrived from Riyadh, authorities said on Tuesday.
The seizure was made after the passenger was flagged for unusual movement patterns during routine monitoring. Although no suspicious items were initially detected in the baggage screening, officers conducted a personal search that led to the discovery of the concealed gold.
Passenger Arrived from Riyadh, Intercepted After Screening
A customs spokesperson confirmed that the individual landed in Delhi on Monday and was intercepted shortly after clearing the baggage area.
“No suspicious items were found in the luggage. Further examination, however, revealed gold concealed inside the lining of the jeans,” officials stated.
The gold has been confiscated under provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, and further investigation is underway to determine if the incident is linked to a smuggling network.
Gold Concealment Methods on the Rise
Authorities say that concealment of gold in clothing, body cavities, shoe soles, and electronic devices has become a commonly observed pattern at airports across India. The trend is attributed to rising customs duties and the high domestic market value of gold.
Airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi have reported an increase in seizures over the past year.
What Happens Next?
- The passenger may face arrest or penalty depending on the value and intent.
- Customs officials will assess market valuation and purity.
- Intelligence units may examine possible smuggling networks on the Riyadh–Delhi route.
The identity of the detained passenger has not been disclosed yet.
(Economy India)
