26 Kenyans Arrested in India Over Massive 29kg Gold Smuggling Plot
Indian authorities have detained 26 Kenyan nationals at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport over an alleged gold smuggling attempt involving nearly 29.4 kilograms of gold valued at about KSh525 million (377 million Indian rupees).
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) carried out the operation on 8 April after acting on specific intelligence and digital profiling. The group, which included several elderly women, had cleared initial screening before officers intervened near the green channel, designated for passengers with nothing to declare.
Investigators reported that some suspects attempted to dispose of packages wrapped in black tape near luggage belts. These packages were later found to contain melted gold bars and jewellery. Two individuals were also found concealing gold in their shoes.
Authorities believe the group is linked to a larger smuggling network that recruits couriers from Kenya and Sudan. According to investigators, the syndicate uses methods such as hiding contraband in clothing, footwear, and luggage, and creating distractions at airports to avoid detailed inspections. One suspect was reportedly travelling on a forged passport.
All suspects are currently in judicial custody as investigations continue into the wider network. Under India’s Customs Act, those convicted of smuggling may face confiscation of goods, substantial fines, and prison sentences of up to seven years.
