The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of the customs at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has arrested a Mumbai-based couple for allegedly smuggling gold jewellery and luxury watches collectively valued at over Rs 1.06 crore from Kuala Lumpur. The accused have been identified as Athar Mohammed Ishaq Shaikh (43), a car dealer from Agripada, and his wife Farrah Athar Shaikh (39), a homemaker. They were detained upon arrival from Kuala Lumpur and subsequently booked under the Customs Act, 1962.
Details of the Seizure
During a personal search conducted in the presence of a gazetted officer, customs officials recovered three 24KT rhodium-plated crude gold kada/bangles and one rhodium-plated gold chain weighing a total of 483 grams, valued at Rs 66.39 lakh. The couple also consented to X-ray body scans, which revealed no internal concealment. Additionally, customs officers examined three trolley bags, sling bags, and a ladies purse belonging to the passengers, but no further incriminating material was found.
Valuation of Seized Items
The seized gold ornaments were examined by a government-approved valuer, who certified their value at Rs 66.39 lakh. A separate government valuer assessed three old and used luxury watches — including an Audemars Piguet, a Rolex Gold, and a Rolex Steel Gold — at a collective value of Rs 40 lakh. The total seizure value was thus pegged at Rs 1.06 crore.
Legal Proceedings
The couple was arrested under Sections 104 and 135 of the Customs Act, 1962. Their lawyer, Ravi Hirani, argued that his clients were wearing gold jewellery and using old watches, alleging that the officers had overvalued the timepieces. However, customs officials informed the court that the investigation is at a preliminary stage and that custodial interrogation is necessary to uncover the larger smuggling network and financial trail linked to the case. The offence is classified as cognizable and non-bailable. The court remanded the couple in judicial custody until Monday.
Voluntary Statements
According to customs officials, the accused, in their voluntary statements recorded on June 5, allegedly admitted to the possession, carriage, and smuggling of the gold items and luxury watches. The investigation is ongoing to trace the origins and intended recipients of the smuggled goods.
