DRI seizes nearly 6 kg gold in major smuggling bust near Visakhapatnam

Revenue authorities in Andhra Pradesh have cracked down on a significant gold smuggling operation, seizing nearly six kilograms of the precious metal during an intercept near Visakhapatnam. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) stopped a car travelling between Kolkata and Hyderabad on suspicion of contraband movement, leading to the recovery and arrest of two individuals involved in the illegal transportation.

The seized gold, valued at ₹8.98 crore, represents a major haul in the ongoing battle against precious metals smuggling across eastern India. Preliminary investigations suggest the contraband made its way into Indian territory via the porous India-Bangladesh border, a known corridor for illicit gold trafficking into the country.

The two arrested persons are currently in DRI custody as investigations continue into the smuggling network and the origin of the gold. The agency is examining whether the consignment was destined for further distribution or for conversion into jewellery in domestic markets. Such operations have become increasingly common as international gold price fluctuations create arbitrage opportunities for smugglers attempting to circumvent import duties and customs regulations.

The seizure underscores the DRI's heightened vigilance on major transportation routes connecting eastern manufacturing hubs with consumption centres. Authorities have intensified checks following a series of similar interdictions along highways linking Kolkata and South Indian cities in recent months.