AirportSecurity – CISF Seizes Foreign Currency Worth Rs 1.39 Crore at Mumbai Airport
AirportSecurity – A foreign passenger travelling through Mumbai’s international airport was stopped by security personnel after officials discovered a large quantity of undeclared foreign currency concealed inside his luggage. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) recovered foreign cash valued at approximately Rs 1.39 crore during a routine security screening operation on Thursday. Following the seizure, the traveller was detained and transferred to Customs authorities for further investigation.
Suspicious Baggage Raises Security Concerns
According to officials, the passenger was scheduled to board a flight from Mumbai to Addis Ababa when his baggage drew attention during the standard screening process. Security staff monitoring the X-ray baggage inspection system noticed unusual images inside the traveller’s hand luggage, prompting a more detailed examination.
The alert security team immediately initiated additional checks after identifying objects that appeared inconsistent with normal travel belongings. Upon opening and inspecting the baggage, officers uncovered a significant amount of foreign currency that had not been declared to the relevant authorities.
Undeclared Cash Valued at Rs 1.39 Crore Recovered
Officials confirmed that the seized amount included approximately 145,000 US dollars. Based on current exchange rates, the value of the recovered currency is estimated at around Rs 1.39 crore. The cash was taken into custody by authorities, while the passenger was handed over to Customs officials for questioning and legal proceedings under applicable regulations.
The operation took place during routine security procedures carried out at the airport, highlighting the role of surveillance systems and baggage screening technology in detecting potential violations involving currency transportation.
Airport Authorities Continue Vigilance Against Currency Smuggling
Security agencies have repeatedly stressed the importance of complying with foreign exchange and customs regulations while travelling internationally. Cases involving undeclared foreign currency continue to be a concern for enforcement agencies at major airports across India.
Officials noted that advanced screening systems, combined with behavioural assessment and physical inspection, have helped identify several attempts to move unaccounted cash through airports in recent years.
Similar Incident Reported at Hyderabad Airport
The Mumbai seizure comes only weeks after another foreign currency recovery at Hyderabad airport. In that case, CISF personnel intercepted a passenger preparing to travel to Dubai on April 22.
Authorities became suspicious after observing unusual behavioural patterns during routine security procedures. The passenger was subsequently subjected to enhanced screening, including baggage examination through the X-BIS system.
During the inspection, officials discovered foreign currency worth approximately Rs 9.62 lakh hidden inside the traveller’s belongings. The recovered amount reportedly consisted of multiple currencies, including US dollars, UAE dirhams and Saudi riyals.
Customs Investigation Underway
Following the recovery in Hyderabad, the passenger and the seized baggage were handed over to Customs authorities for further action. Officials stated that the case was processed according to established legal procedures governing the transportation of foreign currency.
The two incidents underline the continued efforts of airport security agencies and Customs departments to prevent illegal movement of cash across international borders. Authorities have reiterated that travellers must comply with all declaration requirements and currency regulations to avoid legal consequences during international travel.