Delhi Airport Customs Uncovers Novel Gold Smuggling Method Using Modified Water Bottles

NEW DELHI, May 13, 2026 — Customs officers at Indira Gandhi International Airport intercepted two Indian male passengers arriving from Jeddah and Doha after they attempted to bypass security through the Green Channel.

During a detailed examination of the travelers, who arrived on flights SV-756 and 6E-1308, officials discovered an ingenious concealment method involving specially modified water bottles.

The bottles featured fake bottoms designed to hide circular pieces of raw gold that had been coated in silver to evade routine detection.The professional vigilance of the Air Intelligence Unit led to the recovery of 233.5 grams and 117 grams of gold from the respective passengers.

While the total quantity seized was relatively small, officials noted the significance of the case due to the sophisticated and novel methodology used by the smugglers.

This operation highlights the proactive stance of Delhi Airport Customs in countering increasingly lucrative smuggling attempts fueled by rising international gold prices.