On 6 January 2026, based on specific intelligence, a key syndicate member was apprehended at a domestic logistics warehouse in Delhi while taking delivery of two consignments originating from Agartala, Tripura. Inspection of these consignments uncovered 15 kg of foreign-origin gold, bearing international refinery markings, valued at approximately ₹20.73 crore.
Simultaneous searches across multiple locations in Delhi and Agartala resulted in the recovery of an additional 14.2 kg of gold and ₹2.9 crore in cash, including Indian and Bangladeshi currency. In total, 29.2 kg of gold, valued at around ₹40 crore, along with ₹2.9 crore cash, was seized under the provisions of the Customs Act.
Modus Operandi of the Syndicate
Investigations revealed that the syndicate smuggled gold into India via the Indo–Bangladesh border in Tripura, subsequently transporting it to Delhi using domestic cargo services. The operation was aided by handlers based in Dubai, Bangladesh, and local operatives running jewellery shops in Agartala.
The DRI’s action underscores its commitment to safeguarding India’s economic and fiscal stability while ensuring a fair and transparent trading environment. The agency continues to monitor and intercept illicit flows of high-value commodities, strengthening border vigilance and national security.