Ahmedabad: In a major crackdown on smuggling activities, the Airport Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad seized a large consignment of high-end electronics and ₹45 lakh in cash from a woman arriving from Sharjah. The action has once again highlighted the growing menace of airport-based smuggling networks.
According to sources, the AIU flagged a woman passenger travelling from Sharjah to Ahmedabad on suspicion. Upon detailed investigation, officials discovered a significant haul of smuggled electronics including Apple iPhones, Apple Watches, premium laptops, and high-value device cases — all brought in without declaration.
Alongside the electronics, the AIU found ₹45 lakh in unaccounted cash. The woman, identified as a resident of Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra, was immediately detained and the entire consignment was seized.
“This is a significant recovery that indicates a well-planned smuggling operation. The passenger had no valid declaration for such a large quantity of high-end goods or the cash,” said an official from the AIU.
The discovery of the goods and the cash stash has raised serious concerns about the scale of illegal imports being routed through airports. Following the incident, security at the Ahmedabad airport has been further tightened.
AIU officials are conducting a deeper investigation to identify if any syndicate or accomplices are involved and who the end recipients of the smuggled items were.
The AIU is also coordinating with customs and enforcement agencies to determine whether this seizure is part of a larger international smuggling racket. The woman remains in custody while questioning is underway.
