Customs authorities at Karachi’s international airport foiled a major smuggling attempt involving gold and foreign currency. The operation targeted a passenger preparing to travel to Dubai. Officials recovered gold biscuits and cash during a detailed inspection of the luggage.
According to customs officials, the seized items included 30 tola of gold and US$4,900 in cash. The gold was discovered after officers noticed suspicious modifications in electronic items. Further examination revealed that the gold had been concealed inside mobile phones.
Authorities recovered three gold biscuits, each weighing 10 tola. The concealment method suggested a deliberate attempt to bypass security checks. Officials described the smuggling technique as carefully executed but ultimately unsuccessful.
The total value of the seized gold and foreign currency has been estimated at Rs15.682 million. Customs officials immediately took the recovered items into custody. The passenger was detained for questioning following the discovery.
Officials registered a case under the Customs Act and launched formal legal proceedings. Investigators are now examining whether the suspect acted alone or as part of a wider smuggling network. Authorities are also reviewing travel records to identify possible links.
Airport officials stressed that surveillance and screening measures have been strengthened. They stated that customs teams remain on high alert, especially for outbound international flights. Smugglers often target such routes due to high demand for precious metals abroad.
Gold smuggling remains a persistent challenge for customs enforcement agencies. High international prices and currency fluctuations continue to drive illegal attempts. Therefore, authorities have increased intelligence-based operations at major airports.
Customs officials reiterated their commitment to cracking down on smuggling activities. They emphasized that concealment tactics continue to evolve. However, trained officers and advanced screening tools help detect such attempts.
The seizure reflects ongoing efforts to protect the country’s economic interests. Officials urged travelers to comply with customs regulations. They warned that violations would result in strict legal action.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Authorities expect further developments as the case progresses.
