In a major crackdown on smuggling, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Mumbai, has seized 132 containers containing misdeclared goods worth ₹139 crore at Nhava Sheva Port and arrested the key accused linked to the racket.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, DRI officials intercepted containers carrying around 3,029 metric tonnes of goods that were falsely declared as ‘Toor Dal (Pigeon Peas)’. However, upon detailed inspection, authorities found that the consignments actually contained 2,710 metric tonnes of watermelon seeds imported from Tanzania and Sudan, along with 319 metric tonnes of green peas sourced from Canada.
Officials said the misdeclaration was aimed at bypassing strict import restrictions imposed by the government. As per regulations, import of melon seeds has been prohibited since June 2024, while green peas imports are restricted with conditions such as a minimum import price of ₹200 per kg and entry permitted only through Kolkata port.
The proprietor of the importing firm, identified as the main Accused in the organised smuggling operation, was arrested on April 19, 2026.
DRI officials stated that further investigation is underway to uncover the larger network involved in the racket. The agency reiterated its commitment to curbing illegal imports and protecting the interests of domestic farmers by ensuring strict enforcement of import regulations.