Manipur: Imphal customs thwart gold smuggling bid

Imphal: In a major bust, the Anti-Smuggling Unit of Imphal Customs Division seized smuggled gold worth approximately Rs 46 lakh (US$60,000) at Singjamei Supermarket in Manipur on Friday night.

Acting on a tip off, officials intercepted a Maruti car around 8:00 pm in Imphal. A thorough search led to the discovery of three cleverly concealed pieces of gold weighing a total of 627.5 grams under the vehicle's handbrake, said an official.

One suspect has been apprehended. To aid further arrests and potential seizures, authorities are withholding the individual's identity at this time.

Initial questioning suggests the gold was smuggled from Myanmar through the southern borders of Manipur, the official added.

The confiscated gold and the arrested individual are being held under the Customs Act of 1962. A comprehensive investigation is underway to identify and apprehend any additional members of the smuggling ring.