DRI foils attempt to smuggle foreign currency out of India at Kolkata Airport; Foreign currency equivalent to Rs. 3.5 crore seized and seven arrested
PIB National (English) · Published 10 November 2026 · Last updated
DRI seized foreign currency worth over Rs 3.5 crore at Kolkata Airport on 06‑Nov‑2026, arresting seven suspects for contravening the Customs Act and FEMA regulations.
Key points
- DRI intercepted seven passengers bound for Bangkok at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on 06‑Nov‑2026.
- A personal search of hand and checked‑in baggage uncovered foreign currency in USD and GBP valued at Rs 3.12 crore.
- The currency was hidden in notebooks, two‑layered compartments of trolley bags, shoes, and pockets of packed clothes.
- All seven individuals were arrested and charged under the Customs Act read with FEMA Regulations.
- Additional passengers were searched, leading to recovery of foreign currency worth Rs 0.39 crore, which was handed to Customs formation.
- The seized amount totals Rs 3.51 crore, representing a major thwarted attempt at cross‑border smuggling.
- DRI cited specific intelligence as the basis for the operation, emphasizing its role in safeguarding India’s economic frontiers.
- The arrested syndicate members could face prosecution for illegal outflow of foreign exchange, undermining fiscal stability.
Background
- India’s foreign exchange management is governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 1999, which restricts un‑authorised export of foreign currency.
- The Customs Act, 1962 empowers customs authorities to seize contraband, including illegal foreign exchange, and prosecute offenders.
- DRI, the intelligence arm of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), routinely conducts intelligence‑led operations against currency smuggling.
- Previous high‑profile seizures (e.g., 2023 seizure of USD 2 crore at Delhi airport) highlighted persistent organised networks facilitating illicit outflows.
- The RBI’s 180‑day rule requires residents returning from abroad to surrender unspent foreign exchange exceeding USD 2,000, reinforcing the legal framework against hoarding.
Prelims facts and Mains angle for this issue are in the full SWAदेSH note.
Original report: PIB National (English)