Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Oct 21: Alert personnel of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) detected foreign currency worth approximately Rs 1.14 crore concealed in the hand baggage of two passengers bound for Bangkok at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
The seizure was made around 10.20 am on October 19 during routine security screening at the International Terminal Security Hold Area. A CISF screener noticed suspicious images in the X-ray scans of the hand baggage carried by the two passengers scheduled to travel to Bangkok on Bhutan Airlines flight B3700. The bags were subsequently referred for physical examination.
During the inspection, CISF personnel recovered USD 1,19,900, equivalent to approximately Rs 1,13,64,002, concealed inside false bottoms of the two bags. The currency had been wrapped in newspaper, apparently in an attempt to evade detection by security personnel.
Of the total amount recovered, USD 74,900 was found in the hand baggage of one passenger, while USD 45,000 was recovered from the other passenger’s bag.
After completing the prescribed formalities, both passengers, along with the seized currency, were handed over to the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Customs for further investigation and necessary legal action.
On October 20, the passenger from whose baggage USD 74,900 was recovered was taken by AIU/Customs officials to the District and Sessions Court for further legal proceedings following the investigation and seizure.
The second passenger was released by Customs after a detention receipt was issued for the USD 45,000 recovered from the passenger’s baggage.
In a release, the CISF reiterated its commitment to maintaining aviation security through effective screening procedures, vigilant surveillance and professional conduct by its personnel.
Officials said the detection highlighted the importance of coordinated action between airport security personnel and Customs authorities in addressing suspected financial and currency-related violations.