Gold Smuggling Bust: Authorities Seize Gold and Foreign Currency at KIA in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: A recent crackdown at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru revealed a significant amount of gold and foreign currency being smuggled by passengers arriving and departing from various destinations between July 9 and 15. Let’s take a closer look at the details of this smuggling operation.

**Gold Smuggling Uncovered**

Passengers arriving from Sharjah, Dubai, Sri Lanka, Bahrain, and Colombo were found to be involved in smuggling attempts. Eight individuals have been apprehended for their involvement in these foiled smuggling attempts.

One of the suspects, Rahamthjan Shaik from Andhra Pradesh, was discovered wearing a sanitary pad containing gold in semi-solid paste form. Additionally, two gold chains were concealed in her bra, and two nuggets were hidden within an Apple AirPod charger. The total amount of gold she was carrying amounted to 698 grams, valued at Rs 49.2 lakh.

**Foreign Currency Smuggling**

Miya Mohammed Sayeed, a resident of NG Palya, Bengaluru, was caught trying to smuggle foreign currency on a flight to Bangkok. Sayeed had hidden foreign currency worth Rs 59.5 lakh in the hollow pipes of a trolley handle.

Another individual, Mohamedali Jinnah Ameer from Tamil Nadu, was intercepted while traveling to Singapore with foreign currency worth Rs 6.2 lakh concealed in his hand luggage. The currency included 7,000 Euros, 80 Singapore dollars, and 50 Sri Lankan rupees.

**Insight:**

Gold and foreign currency smuggling remain prevalent issues at airports worldwide, with smugglers using innovative methods to conceal contraband. The recent bust at Kempegowda International Airport highlights the ongoing efforts of authorities to curb such illegal activities and underscores the need for stringent security measures to combat smuggling.

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2. **Lokesh Kanagaraj confirms ‘Coolie’ will be about gold smuggling:** Director Lokesh Kanagaraj’s upcoming film ‘Coolie’ with superstar Rajinikanth delves into the world of gold smuggling, showcasing a star-studded cast and Rajinikanth’s negative role.

By cracking down on such smuggling activities and raising awareness about the consequences, authorities aim to deter individuals from engaging in illicit practices while traveling.