The DRI’s annual report indicates a significant rise in cocaine and gold smuggling in India, particularly through North-Eastern borders, with cocaine trafficking increasing to 47 cases in 2023-24 from 21. Gold smuggling has surged with 1,319 kg seized compared to 600 kg last year. Additionally, the misuse of Free Trade Agreements has resulted in commercial fraud worth ₹1,427 crore. DRI officials have been urged to enhance their skills to tackle these growing challenges.
India has reported a significant escalation in the smuggling of cocaine and gold, prompting serious concerns particularly along the North-Eastern borders, where traffickers have adopted innovative strategies. According to the Directorate of Revenue and Intelligence (DRI) in its annual Smuggling of India report, released by Union Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra, the agency has noted a troubling rise in cocaïne trafficking, with 47 incidents recorded in 2023-24, a sharp increase from 21 in the previous year. Moreover, the report underscores the rise of illicit gold imports, predominantly sourced from West Asia, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
The report highlights that India has become a key destination for these illegal gold imports, with smuggling activities concentrated in states close to porous borders, notably Manipur and Mizoram, which have emerged as focal points for gold trafficking, as illustrated by the significant increase in seizures from 600 kg in the previous year to 1,319 kg this year. In addition to the smuggling of gold and cocaine, the DRI report also identifies a disturbing trend of commercial fraud linked to the misuse of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), with reported cases amounting to ₹1,427 crore in 2023-24, compared to ₹481 crore the year prior.
During the foundation day celebration of the DRI, Secretary Malhotra emphasized the evolution of financial crimes, particularly in the context of digital advancements, and urged officials to continuously enhance their skills and utilize advanced technologies to combat smuggling. He advised focusing on the masterminds of smuggling operations and stressed the importance of exercising caution in technical interpretations of tax laws, as acts that generate minimal revenue should not inadvertently damage the broader economy. Acknowledging the potential pitfalls, he underscored, “Revenue comes in only when there is some income, so we have to be very cautious so that we do not, in the process, kill the golden goose.”
The increase in smuggling activities in India, particularly involving drugs and precious metals, poses a significant challenge to law enforcement agencies. The North-East region, with its porous borders and strategic location, has become a hotspot for such illegal activities. The DRI’s annual report sheds light on not only the rise of cocaine and gold trafficking but also highlights the misuse of trade agreements that jeopardize domestic industries. The urgency for improved skills and techniques among officials stems from the complex nature of current smuggling operations enriched by advancements in technology.
In summary, the annual report from the Directorate of Revenue and Intelligence reveals a troubling rise in the smuggling of cocaine and gold in India, particularly through the North-Eastern borders. The agency’s findings underscore the necessity for enhanced vigilance against complex financial crimes and fraud linked to trade agreements. With increased seizure rates and rising incidents of smuggling recorded, it is critical for law enforcement to adapt and respond effectively to the evolving tactics of traffickers.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
