Ahmedabad: A major case of gold smuggling has been uncovered at Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, where customs officials seized gold worth over ₹83 lakh from a woman arriving from Kuala Lumpur.
The incident highlights the growing sophistication of smuggling techniques and the vigilance of airport authorities.
The woman passenger, who landed on March 30, 2026, via flight AK 91, was intercepted by the Customs Air Intelligence Unit based on data-driven profiling through the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS). Her behavior raised suspicion, prompting officials to stop her at the green channel for further questioning. When she failed to provide satisfactory answers, a detailed examination was carried out.
During a subsequent medical check, officials discovered that the woman had concealed two capsules inside her body. These capsules contained a paste made of gold mixed with liquid chemicals. The customs department then undertook a refining process, through which 553.07 grams of 24-carat gold was successfully extracted.
The seized gold has an estimated market value of ₹83.29 lakh, while its tariff value stands at ₹75.58 lakh. Following the recovery, the woman was taken into custody, and legal proceedings have been initiated against her.
Authorities are now conducting a deeper investigation to determine the intended recipient of the gold in Ahmedabad and to uncover any larger international smuggling network that may be involved. This case has once again brought attention to the use of innovative and risky concealment methods by smugglers.
In response, security and surveillance measures at the airport have been further strengthened. Officials remain alert to prevent similar attempts in the future and to dismantle organized smuggling operations operating across borders.