Question : Smuggling in India Report

(a) whether the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has released Smuggling in India Report 2017-18 recently, if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether as per the report the gold seizure has increased to 103 per cent during the year 2017-18 and if so, the reasons for the same;
(c) the total quantum/amount of gold seized by the custom department during the said period;
(d) the number of persons arrested along with the action taken/being taken by the Government against them; and
(e) the steps taken/being taken by the Government to prevent the smuggling of gold, foreign currency and other items?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE [REVENUE]
(SHRI SHIV PRATAP SHUKLA)
(a) Yes, Madam. Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has released Smuggling in India Report 2017-18. The report contains details and trend analysis of the seizures of goods and contraband such as gold and foreign currency, narcotic drugs, antiques and wildlife.
(b) Yes, in 2017-18 the gold seizures by Indian Customs have increased by 103% in terms of number of seizures. As per analysis of intelligence inputs the reasons for increase in seizures include increased number of attempts to smuggle (which in turn due to increase in demand, difference in price of gold in India and abroad etc) and concerted efforts of Customs/DRI officers.

(c) Total quantity of gold seized in the 2017-18 is 3223 Kgs.¬

(d) 960 persons were arrested for offences under the Customs Act, 1962. Other actions in terms of the Customs Act, 1962, such as issuance of Show Cause Notices for confiscation, recovery of duty, fine or penalty and prosecution have been taken.

(e) To counter the menace of gold and foreign currency smuggling, Alert/Modus operandi circular are issued periodically. Field formations are also sensitized to keep a close vigil to combat the smuggling.