In a significant breakthrough, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has arrested an air hostess for allegedly smuggling nearly one kilogram of gold from Muscat to Kannur. The smuggled gold was found concealed in her rectum, according to sources from the DRI.
The arrested individual, identified as Surabhi Khatun, a native of Kolkata, was intercepted by DRI officers at Kannur International Airport on May 28. Acting on specific intelligence from the DRI’s Cochin unit, the officers conducted a personal search of Khatun, resulting in the recovery of 960 grams of gold in compound form hidden in her rectum.
The source told Press Trust of India (PTI) that this is the first instance in India where an airline crew member has been caught smuggling gold by such a method. Following her arrest, Khatun was interrogated, and after completing the necessary formalities, she was produced before the jurisdictional magistrate. She has been remanded to 14 days in the women’s prison in Kannur.
A detailed investigation has been launched, with preliminary evidence suggesting that Khatun had previously smuggled gold on several occasions. The DRI is also probing the involvement of Kerala-based individuals in the smuggling operation.
“We have gathered substantial evidence indicating that this is not the first time she has smuggled gold. There is a well-organized smuggling ring operating, and we are investigating the involvement of other individuals, especially those based in Kerala,” the source added.
The airline employing Khatun was contacted for comments on the matter but has yet to respond.
Sources By Agencies