US woman held at IGI airport with Rs 5.42 cr worth gold, diamonds, luxury watches

According to the Customs officials, the passenger arrived at Terminal 3 from Hong Kong when she was intercepted by the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) on the basis of spot profiling.

Her baggage was first subjected to X-ray screening and later a detailed physical examination was carried out “in accordance with prescribed legal procedures".

During the search, officials seized 1.2 kg of gold and diamond items and 10 kg of silver utensils, all of foreign origin and allegedly undeclared.

In addition to precious metals, several high-value luxury watches, including brands such as Rolex, Bvlgari, Chopard and Cartier, were also found in her possession. Foreign currency, amounting to $9,084, 605 Euros and 2,540 Hong Kong dollars, was also seized from her.

“The total value of the seized goods was assessed at Rs 5.42 crore. As the items were not declared and were in violation of the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962, these were seized under Section 110 of the Act."

The woman was subsequently arrested under Section 104 of the Customs Act, 1962. Further investigation into the case is on.