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The Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) seized smuggled gold worth ₹1.25 crore from two Indian passengers who arrived from Bangkok at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on February 25, 2025. The gold, in the form of 24-carat gold dust, was concealed inside their bodies. As per official sources, the accused, identified as Mohammad Wasif Tahirali Shaikh and his wife, Ruhin Mohammad Wasif Shaikh, arrived in Mumbai on VietJet Airlines flight VZ760 from Bangkok. They attempted to pass through the Green Channel without declaring any dutiable or restricted items. However, AIU officials intercepted them for questioning regarding the possession of any undeclared goods, including gold, which they initially denied. Unsatisfied with their responses, authorities conducted a personal search and an X-ray scan, revealing that the duo had concealed gold dust wrapped in wax inside their bodies. The total smuggled gold was found in six packets, weighing 1,604 grams, with a net weight of 1,530 grams, valued at ₹1.25 crore. On February 26, 2025, Mohammad Wasif Tahirali Shaikh’s statement was recorded under Section 108 of the Customs Act, 1962. He admitted to smuggling 24-carat gold dust (three packets) weighing 765 grams, worth ₹62.96 lakh, without making a customs declaration. He further stated that his wife, Ruhin Mohammad Wasif Shaikh, also carried an identical amount of gold dust but was unaware of the smuggling plan. According to him, she was merely following his instructions and believed they were on a leisure trip to Bangkok. The accused also revealed that he was directly involved in the smuggling operation and was promised ₹40,000 for the job. The deal was reportedly arranged by a person named Ali Bhai, who provided him with the gold for smuggling. Following his confession, Mohammad Wasif Tahirali Shaikh was arrested under Section 104 of the Customs Act at 10:45 AM on February 26, 2025. Authorities have sought 14-day judicial custody for the accused, arguing that his release could lead to tampering with evidence or an attempt to flee the country. Meanwhile, the accused’s lawyer, Vijay Advani, claimed in court that his client was innocent and had been falsely implicated in the case. Authorities are now investigating the smuggling network and the involvement of other operatives in this racket.

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