In a joint operation, ICG seizes foreign origin gold off Mandapam coast in Tamil Nadu
In a joint operation, ICG seizes 4.9 kilograms of foreign-origin gold off Mandapam coast in Tamil Nadu
In a concerted operation by the Indian Coast Guard and the Customs Preventive Unit, Ramanathapuram, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) successfully seized 4.9 kilograms of foreign-origin gold, valued at Rs 3.43 crore, in the maritime vicinity of Vedhalai coast, Mandapam, Tamil Nadu.
Acting on precise intelligence, DRI and ICG personnel targeted a smuggling syndicate reportedly ferrying gold from Sri Lanka to India using a fishing vessel. The operation unfolded under the cover of darkness on the night spanning 3rd to 4th April, culminating in the early hours with the pursuit and interception of a suspect boat by ICG forces. Moments before being apprehended, the crew attempted to dispose of the illicit cargo into the sea.
Upon interrogation, the three individuals aboard confessed to receiving the smuggled gold from a Sri Lankan vessel in a high-seas rendezvous, aiming to surreptitiously bring the consignment ashore.
A subsequent meticulous seabed search, bolstered by the Customs Preventive Unit's reinforcement, led to the recovery of the contraband on 5th April. The haul, consisting of variously sized crude gold bars wrapped in a towel, was ingeniously concealed to evade law enforcement's scrutiny.
The seized gold underscores the persistent vigilance and collaborative efforts of the Indian Coast Guard and Customs authorities against maritime smuggling activities. The three detainees are currently under extensive questioning to unravel further links in this cross-border smuggling operation.
