Pune: In a major operation, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized six kilograms of smuggled gold valued at ₹4.47 crores near the Talegaon toll plaza.

Acting on specific intelligence, the DRI team intercepted a private bus that was transporting the gold from Mumbai to Pune. Four individuals involved in the smuggling operation were arrested, and a case has been registered against them under the Customs Act, 1962.

The DRI team received a tip-off that the gold, smuggled into Mumbai, was being moved to Pune via a private bus. Acting swiftly, the officials set up a trap and searched the suspects onboard the bus.

During the search, two packets containing gold were discovered. Further examination revealed that the smugglers had hidden gold powder inside medicinal capsules to evade detection.

After questioning the arrested suspects, the DRI tracked down the main supplier and his accomplices in Mumbai and Pune. These individuals were reportedly involved in selling the smuggled gold. In total, 5.918 kilograms of gold was seized, along with ₹22 lakhs in cash that was believed to be proceeds from the smuggling operation.

As the demand for gold typically spikes during the Diwali festive season, smuggling activities increase to capitalize on the market surge.

The DRI is continuing its investigation to identify the intended recipients of the smuggled gold. This incident follows a similar case in which smuggled gold from Dubai was seized by customs officials at Pune International Airport.