Novel method of currency smuggling comes to light

Chennai, Sep 27 (UNI) The Customs Air Intelligence unit arrested two persons, who tried to smuggle foreign currencies worth nearly Rs 20 lakhs, at the Anna International airport here early this morning.

As Abdul Bhakri (35) and Sarbudeen (30), both hailing from Ramanathapuram, were found in a pensive mood in the Singapore-bound aircaft, they were questioned by the authorities. Since they gave contradictory statements, their journey was cancelled and their baggage thoroughly searched. However, nothing was found.

As they were squirming, the customs authorities grew suspicious and scanned their whole body and found five bundles concealed in their anus.

Assisted by the doctors, the officials removed three bundles from Bhakri, amounting to 27,450 Euros valued at Rs 16 lakhs. A similar search on Sarbudeen yielded two bundles. While one bundle contained Rs three lakh worth Euros, efforts were on to remove the second one.

Meanwhile, a Chinese national Kin Sen Hui (35), travelling in a Malaysian Airlines flight to Kuala Lumpur, was detained by the customs officials as he was found carrying 15,600 US Dollars (about Rs 6.5 lakhs) in his hand baggage in violation of rules.

After imposing a fine, the Chinese national would be allowed to travel in another flight.

UNI