The Ministry of Finance announced that the DRI busted a well‑organised gold smuggling network operating along the Indo‑Bangladesh border in West Bengal. The operation resulted in the seizure of about 24 kg of foreign‑origin gold valued at roughly ₹34 crore and the arrest of seven suspects.
Key Developments
- DRI intercepted seven individuals travelling on separate motorcycles from Krishnanagar to Chakdaha in Nadia district.
- Personal searches uncovered 180 pieces of foreign‑marked and defaced gold bars hidden inside specially‑tailored cloth belts worn around the waist.
- The gold, weighing ~24 kg, was seized under the Customs Act, 1962.
- All seven carriers were arrested; preliminary investigation shows they collected gold near the border and were passing it to another set of carriers.
Important Facts
Quantity seized: 24 kg of foreign‑origin gold (≈180 bars).
Value: Approximately ₹34 crore.
Location: Krishnanagar‑to‑Chakdaha route, Nadia district, West Bengal.
Legal provision: Seizure made under the Customs Act, 1962.
Arrests: Seven individuals, all charged with smuggling offences.
Exam Relevance
This case touches upon several GS topics. It illustrates the role of the Ministry of Finance and its enforcement wing, the DRI, in curbing illegal cross‑border trade. Understanding the