Hyderabad: Customs officials detected a Shamshabad airport currency smuggling case and seized foreign currency worth ₹45 lakh from a passenger bound for Hong Kong. The interception took place at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport during routine surveillance.
Officials grew suspicious of the passenger’s behaviour before departure. Therefore, they conducted a detailed inspection of his luggage. During the check, they found a large amount of foreign currency without valid authorisation.
Authorities said the passenger had concealed the cash carefully inside his baggage. However, the inspection team uncovered the hidden currency during the search. The seizure formed part of ongoing checks to curb illegal movement of money through the airport.
The officials immediately confiscated the foreign currency. They also registered a case under provisions of the Foreign Exchange regulations. Further action followed as per standard legal procedure.
Shamshabad airport currency smuggling under Customs probe
Officials launched a detailed investigation into the Shamshabad airport currency smuggling case. They began questioning the passenger to trace the origin of the seized money. At the same time, they examined possible links to organised networks.
Investigators are trying to determine where the passenger sourced the currency. They are also probing whether a hawala network operated behind the attempt. Therefore, officials are analysing travel history and financial links.
The Customs department intensified monitoring at the airport following repeated smuggling attempts. Officers said such operations aimed to prevent illegal outflow of currency and protect financial regulations.
This Shamshabad airport currency smuggling incident highlighted continued risks at international transit points. Officials said strict vigilance would continue to stop similar violations in future.