After Madurai, foreign notes worth Rs 3.8 cr seized in Tiruchy

Acting on a tip off, a joint team of customs officials and AIU personnel kept a vigil on the passengers. While inspecting in the scanning area of the departure hall, officials on suspicion intercepted two passengers, Zakir Hussain from Ilayankudi and Tajudeen from Chennai bound for Malayisa by Air Asia (Flight No AK 24), and questioned them.

During a thorough check of their belongings, officials found that the duo was carrying foreign currencies, including US dollars concealed in the false bottom and the top of their suitcases.

Officials cut open the suitcases, in which they found a large number of US dollars and Euros, which worked out to Rs 3.84 crore. Subsequently, the two passengers were detained by the officials.

Officials added that from January 2018 to October 26, 43.74 kg gold worth Rs 15.60 crore and foreign currency worth Rs 5.41 crore. The air intelligence unit has been directed to remain alert on both arrival and departure sides of the airport to check smuggling of gold, currencies and other articles.