Ahmedabad Airport Customs Foils Gold Smuggling Attempt Worth Rs 96 Lakh
In a significant enforcement action, the Customs department at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International (SVPI) Airport in Ahmedabad apprehended a man returning from Dubai exactly one week ago. The individual was found carrying two and a half gold bars valued at Rs 51.7 lakh in his baggage, which he had failed to declare. A thorough search further revealed that his underwear contained a concealed layer of gold paste worth Rs 44.3 lakh. In total, the man illegally transported gold worth Rs 96 lakh into the country, highlighting ongoing challenges in combating smuggling activities.
Gold Smuggling Trends and Customs Challenges
The focus on gold smuggling has intensified recently, partly due to a web series that shed light on the Customs department's efforts. According to official data, the department recorded a relatively low volume of seizures in 2025 compared to previous years. In 2024, authorities seized 126.5 kg of gold, whereas in 2025, this figure dropped to 53.6 kg. Over the past three years, gold worth Rs 199 crore has been confiscated, indicating persistent smuggling attempts despite fluctuations in volume.
Sources indicate that while the absolute volume of seizures decreased, the trend shows an increase in the average seizure per case. In 2023, the average was 477 grams per case, but by 2025, it rose to 825 grams per case. Additionally, the per-kilogram price of seized gold has escalated over this period, reflecting broader market dynamics. Organized gold smuggling is closely tied to fluctuations in domestic and international gold prices, with syndicates adapting their operations accordingly.
Market Dynamics and Price Surges
Haresh Acharya, director of the India Bullion and Jewellers' Association, provided insights into the current gold market. He noted that gold in the Ahmedabad market is trading at approximately Rs 1.605 lakh per 10 grams. While prices have remained largely stable over the past fortnight, there has been a significant broader upswing. As of February 13, gold appreciated by nearly 81% year-on-year, a substantial surge that influences smuggling incentives. Acharya emphasized that this sharp increase makes gold an attractive target for illegal activities, prompting heightened vigilance from authorities.
Major Cases and Smuggling Rings
The Customs department has recorded several major cases in the past year and early 2026, underscoring the scale of smuggling operations. In one notable instance in 2025, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) uncovered a smuggling ring involving airline staff. This syndicate was found to have smuggled gold worth Rs 16 crore over just two months, demonstrating the sophisticated methods employed by organized crime networks. Such cases reveal the ongoing battle against gold smuggling and the need for continuous enforcement efforts to protect economic interests.
