Chennai: The Special Intelligence and Investigation Branch (SIIB)-Chennai recently intercepted and seized three containers of mis-declared goods at the port based on specific intelligence.
The seized items included 516 alloy wheels, 11,624 pairs of footwear infringing on intellectual property rights, 15,000 mobile batteries, and laser machines, with a combined value of Rs 5.13 crore. Officials reported that these goods were fraudulently imported, falsely declared as study tables and stationery.
The Chennai customs department has conducted multiple operations this year and the previous year. On February 6, customs intercepted 23.48 kg of hydroponic ganja, valued at Rs 23.5 crore, hidden in frozen fruit packaging from three Indian passengers arriving in Chennai from Bangkok on January 26. The passengers have since been arrested and taken into judicial custody.
Additionally, on October 1 of last year, a joint operation by the Customs Department and the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) successfully prevented the smuggling of two species of turtles, resulting in the arrest of several individuals. The AIU confiscated 4,967 red-eared slider turtles and 19 albino red-eared slider turtles from two passengers arriving from Kuala Lumpur. The customs department shared this information on X, stating, “On 27.09.2024, Air Intelligence Unit, Chennai seized 4,967 Red Eared Slider Turtles & 19 Albino Red Eared Slider Turtles from two pax. who arrived from Kuala Lumpur. Both passengers and receivers were arrested under the Customs Act of 1962.”
In another case, on August 18, 2024, the Chennai AIU intercepted three passengers attempting to smuggle out Indian star tortoises. After inspecting their baggage, officials discovered around 700 tortoises, which are protected under the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972. The passengers involved in this smuggling attempt were subsequently arrested.