Mumbai: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a major gold smuggling syndicate in Mumbai, arresting four individuals, including a father and his twins who are pursuing their higher studies, and seizing contraband and cash worth over Rs 9 crore.The seizure was based on specific intelligence; officers intercepted two accused at Mumbadevi Mansion in Kalbadevi with foreign-origin smuggled gold. Subsequent searches led to the recovery of 3.54 kg of gold valued at Rs 5.50 crore, 18.8 kg of silver worth Rs 46.69 lakh and large quantities of cash, including Rs 3.31 crore from a Nagpada residence.Following specific intelligence, the DRI officials intercepted Mohammed Ibaad Damudi and his brother Iyaad Ahmed Damudi near the shop on the second floor, Dhanji Street, Kalbadevi, when the duo were allegedly delivering smuggled gold. The duo reportedly admitted to carrying gold concealed in a black backpack intended for sale to Chhagan Lal, the shop owner. A gold bar and four cut pieces wrapped in black adhesive tape were recovered.Further searches at the premises led to the recovery of additional gold and silver bars, and ₹39.50 lakh in cash. Authorities also seized three 100-gram gold bars from another individual present at the shop. A govt-approved valuer confirmed that the seized gold weighed 3,540.27 grams, provisionally valued at ₹5.50 crore, while silver weighing 18,827 grams was valued at ₹46.69 lakh.Simultaneously, the DRI officials searched the residence of Salam Damudi, 60, in Nagpada, where they recovered ₹3.31 crore in cash, along with cash-counting machines, a gold weighing scale and a gold bar cutter. A diary containing suspected records of illegal transactions was also seized. During questioning, Salam Damudi allegedly admitted to receiving ₹3 crore as an advance for supplying 2 kg of smuggled gold to Chhagan Lal.The total seizures include smuggled gold, silver and cash believed to be proceeds of illicit trade, all of which have been confiscated under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.Officials stated that the accused provided evasive replies and failed to disclose details about the suppliers and other members of the syndicate. Investigations are underway to identify international links and dismantle the smuggling network.
