Currency smuggling interceptions at Indian airports

Authorities in India have intercepted significant amounts of undeclared foreign currency at major international airports.

In Kolkata, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) seized approximately $119,900 in US currency from two passengers traveling to Bangkok. The funds, totaling roughly 1.14 crore Indian rupees, were found hidden in false compartments and wrapped in newspapers within hand luggage. One passenger was presented before a court for legal proceedings.

In Hyderabad, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has conducted multiple interceptions at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport involving passengers traveling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. On October 22 and 23, acting on specific intelligence, officers intercepted a male passenger and a female passenger traveling on the same flight under separate passenger name records.

From the male passenger, officers recovered USD 66,600, MYR 3,773, and SGD 2, totaling approximately ₹63.62 lakh, concealed in a black plastic cover within a trolley bag. A subsequent interception of the female passenger resulted in the recovery of USD 97,600, valued at roughly ₹91.94 lakh, also concealed in a similar manner. The total seizure amounted to approximately ₹1.56 crore. Both individuals were arrested under the Customs Act, 1962, after failing to provide documentation for the lawful procurement and carriage of the funds. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source and purpose of the currency.