VOI World/ Desk
A Republic of Chad national has been arrested at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport after customs officials seized foreign currency worth approximately ₹1.4 crore during a security operation.
According to customs authorities, the passenger, identified as Al Amir Osman Adam, was intercepted after clearing immigration and preparing to board a flight to Addis Ababa. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, officials conducted a detailed baggage search and recovered around USD 145,000 concealed among his belongings. The seized currency was found in multiple denominations, and investigators said the passenger failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for carrying such a large amount of cash.
The accused was subsequently arrested under provisions of the Customs Act, while the concerned foreign consulate was informed. Authorities are now investigating the source of the funds and whether the case is linked to a larger cross-border money movement network.
The case comes amid heightened vigilance at Mumbai airport, a major international transit hub where customs and security agencies have recently stepped up enforcement against currency smuggling, gold trafficking and narcotics-related offences. Officials say intelligence-led screening remains a key tool in intercepting illicit financial and criminal networks operating through international air routes.
