The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has intercepted an alleged foreign-currency smuggling attempt at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, seizing foreign currency worth approximately ₹3.51 crore and arresting seven passengers travelling to Bangkok.
According to the reported details of the operation, DRI officials acted on intelligence received on the morning of November 6, 2026, about passengers allegedly attempting to carry a large quantity of foreign currency out of India illegally.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: DRI detects an alleged attempt to smuggle foreign currency out of India.
Location: India.
Authority/Organisation: Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and Customs authorities.
Action Taken: Foreign currency worth approximately ₹3.51 crore seized; seven passengers arrested.
- Impact: The operation highlights enforcement efforts against illegal foreign-exchange movement through international airports.
Officials stopped seven passengers and examined their hand baggage and checked-in luggage. The search reportedly resulted in the recovery of US dollars and British pounds valued at approximately ₹3.12 crore.
Investigators also recovered foreign currency worth another ₹39 lakh from other passengers, taking the total reported seizure to approximately ₹3.51 crore.
The currency was allegedly concealed using different methods designed to avoid detection during routine airport checks. These included hidden compartments in trolley bags, notebooks, shoes and clothing.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Illegal movement of foreign currency can undermine regulatory controls and may be associated with organised financial networks. International airports are important points for monitoring cross-border financial movements. Intelligence-led operations help enforcement agencies identify suspicious transactions, investigate possible networks and ensure compliance with foreign-exchange regulations. The Kolkata seizure also highlights the importance of passenger declarations and proper documentation when carrying foreign currency across international borders.
The seven passengers were arrested after they reportedly failed to produce the required documents supporting the lawful possession and export of the recovered currency. Proceedings were initiated under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act and the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).
The other passengers from whom approximately ₹39 lakh was recovered were handed over to the Customs Department for further legal action, according to the published account.
The investigation is expected to examine the source of the foreign currency, its intended destination and whether the passengers were connected to a larger organised network. The possibility of similar attempts using the same international route may also form part of the inquiry.
The operation highlights the enforcement challenges associated with illegal foreign-exchange movements through international airports. Authorities use intelligence inputs, passenger screening and baggage inspections to identify attempts to move currency outside the country without complying with applicable regulations.
The reported seizure took place on November 6, while the detailed account was published on November 10. The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against the arrested passengers will be subject to the legal process.
