DRI, customs on alert over arms, money shipments
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and the Customs Department have launched a nation-wide operation over reports that arms and fake money were being smuggled in through ports. Authorities discovered AK47 rifles in an inland container terminal near Delhi and found crores of fake currency at Chennai port. Clearing cargo was expected to commence shortly after officials concluded their on-ground investigations.
Searches carried out at 5 cities
Following the development at Chennai and Delhi, search operations were launched in 5 cities, including Chennai, Tughlakabad, Kanpur, Mumbai and Kolkata. Reports indicated that AK47 rifles were seized at the ICD Tughlakabad. Freight clearance at Mumbai and Kolkata ports were also frozen temporarily by DRI sleuths. Other reports indicated that arms were also discovered in air cargo at Chennai and Delhi.
Where is the contraband coming from?
While some reports said the fake money may have come from Bangladesh and West Asia, others suggested that it was from Pakistan. Sources said the quantum of the seizure in Chennai was almost Rs. 400 crore in counterfeited new Rs. 2000 and Rs. 500 notes.
Situation in Tamil Nadu
Three ports in the state including Chennai, Ennore and Kattupalli ports had all import cargo frozen. All imports that have arrived at the ports since 1 March are currently being checked. All personnel working at these ports have been asked to report for duty on Sunday as well. CISF forces have also been roped in to monitor the situation at Tamil Nadu's ports.
