Security force foils attempt to smuggle Rs 30.83 lakh foreign currency at Mumbai Airport, passenger held

The passenger, along with the seized currency, was subsequently handed over to the Customs Air Intelligence Unit. (Pic/ Special Arrangement)

In a swift security action at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport's Terminal-2, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) intercepted an attempt to illegally transport foreign currency worth approximately Rs 30.83 lakh on Saturday.

According to officials, CISF personnel detected 1,20,000 UAE Dirhams in the hand baggage of an international passenger during routine screening at the Integrated Security Hold Area (SHA). The passenger was scheduled to fly to Dubai on Emirates flight EK-505.

The X-ray screening system flagged suspicious images in the baggage, following which a detailed physical inspection was conducted. The search led to the recovery of the foreign currency concealed inside the luggage.

The passenger, along with the seized currency, was subsequently handed over to the Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Officials said the timely interception highlights the alertness of CISF personnel and the effectiveness of multi-layered security arrangements at one of the country's busiest international airports, preventing the suspected illegal movement of foreign currency out of India.

Woman security guard foils suspected ganja smuggling bid at Mumbai Metro station

Meanwhile, an alert woman security guard at the Airport Metro Station of Mumbai Metro One foiled an attempt to carry a suspected narcotic substance into the metro system during routine baggage screening on June 26-27, officials said.

According to Mumbai Metro One, the incident occurred at the Ghatkopar-bound entry point, where Lady Security Guard Kanchan Pandey detected suspicious items during routine baggage checks. On inspection, nine packets of suspected marijuana (ganja), weighing around 338 grams, were allegedly recovered from a passenger's bag.

Officials said the passenger attempted to flee the station after being confronted. However, the security personnel on duty immediately alerted the team, following which the accused was chased and apprehended within the station premises.

The accused was detained with the assistance of Security Officer A. Kamble, ASG Avinas (MSF), Supervisor Wasim Tadvi, and other on-duty staff. The coordinated response ensured the passenger was prevented from escaping the metro premises.

The accused, along with the recovered suspected narcotic substance, was handed over to the Andheri Police Station. Police have registered an FIR and initiated further investigation into the matter.

Mumbai Metro One said the incident underscores its strict security protocols and surveillance systems across stations. The management praised the alertness and professionalism of its security staff in preventing the alleged smuggling attempt.

Mumbai Metro One CEO Shyamantak Choudhury commended the security team, stating that passenger safety remains the organisation's highest priority. He praised the swift response and vigilance of the staff in ensuring a safe commuting environment for passengers.