DRI Seizes 362 Metric Tonnes of Pakistani Dry Dates Allegedly Smuggled into India

Authorities uncover 13 containers of dry dates allegedly routed into India using documents claiming the goods originated in the UAE.

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has uncovered an alleged smuggling operation involving more than 362 metric tonnes of dry dates originating from Pakistan, despite restrictions on imports from the country.

Acting on intelligence inputs, DRI officials seized 13 containers of dry dates at the Ambad Container Freight Station in Nashik, Maharashtra. The consignment had reportedly been imported by a Mumbai-based company.

UAE Origin Claimed, Pakistan Link Found

According to the report, the importing company declared that the dry dates had originated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, a preliminary investigation by officials reportedly indicated that the goods had actually originated in Pakistan.

Investigators suspect that the consignment was routed through another location and documentation was allegedly manipulated to conceal its actual country of origin before the goods entered India.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have registered a case in connection with the consignment, and further investigation is underway to establish how the shipments were routed, identify those involved and determine the extent of the alleged operation.

The seizure highlights the role of customs and revenue-intelligence agencies in detecting attempts to circumvent India’s import restrictions through misdeclaration of origin and altered trade documentation.

Category: National / Business