With Diwali around the corner, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has intensified its crackdown on illegal imports of Chinese firecrackers. Officials have allegedly arrested a Mumbai-based importer for smuggling firecrackers worth '2.04 crore, disguised as decorative items.

The accused has been identified as Jaysing Shelke, 36, a resident of Ghatkopar and proprietor of M/s Jay Overseas, a firm registered in 2022. According to officials, Shelke allegedly used his company’s import-export code (EIC) to bring in the banned firecrackers under the label of “mini decorative plants” via Nhava Sheva Port in Navi Mumbai.