The vehicle, operated by a private logistics company, was carrying 24 boxes destined for outlets in Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur of a major jewellery showroom.

The officials stopped the van during routine checks. Staff travelling with the consignment could not produce valid documents for the bullion, prompting the squad to impound the cargo and hand it to Pallavaram Returning Officer. The seized items were moved to the Pallavaram Tahsildar office, where election officers verified the absence of papers and alerted the Income Tax Department.

Tax officials took custody of the van and the jewellery in Nungambakkam for further inquiry. The Model Code of Conduct came into force in the state following the March 15 announcement made by the Election Commission regarding the Assembly Election scheduled for April 23.