DRI intensifies crackdown on precious metals smuggling; seizes 15 kg smuggled gold, 20 kg silver and ₹2 crore cash in nationwide operations; 13 persons arrested

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) reported a series of intelligence‑driven operations across India between 15‑17 July 2026 that seized a total of 15 kg foreign‑origin gold and 20 kg silver, valued at approximately ₹22 crore, along with cash of ₹2.20 crore. Arrests totalled 13 persons. Highlights include: (i) New Delhi operation on 17 July seizing 5 kg gold, 20 kg silver and cash; (ii) IGI Airport interception on 15‑16 July of 1 kg gold concealed in luggage; (iii) Mumbai Airport raid on 15‑16 July confiscating 5 kg gold dust in wax, with three foreign smugglers and three airport staff arrested; (iv) West Bengal raids in Bidhannagar and Bardhaman on 15‑16 July recovering 4 kg gold biscuits from vehicles, leading to four arrests. The DRI emphasised the threat posed by compromised airport staff.