According to the latest NCB report, the number of drone-related drug seizures along the India-Pakistan border has exploded from just 3 in 2021 to 179 cases in 2024. 
Maritime and pharmaceutical seizures have also surged.

Smugglers thrive across heavily guarded India-Pak border

Indian police on Tuesday (Dec&nbsp;3) said that they will investigate Elon Musk-owned Starlink internet service in order to hunt down drug smugglers.&nbsp;

The smugglers used a satellite internet device to navigate deep seas and to bring meth worth $4.25 billion inside the Indian waters for the first time.&nbsp;

The police made their biggest seizure as they uncovered more than 6,000 kg of meth in the remote outpost of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands last week in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-to-engage-with-musk-australian-pm-on-social-media-teen-ban-780582">Ready to 'engage' with Musk: Australian PM on social media teen ban</a>

The boat was filled with sacks of suspected contraband and six Myanmar nationals were detained after the seizure.

<h2>Starlink gets dragged into smuggling case&nbsp;</h2>

The incident for the first time brought into light how a device of Starlink was used for navigating and reaching Indian waters, which raised concerns, said Hargobinder S. Dhaliwal, who is the police officer in charge of the case, while speaking to Reuters.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Think Tank Flags Security Risks Posed by Starlink

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Starlink has earlier claimed that it covers international waters and is now planning to launch in India but has added that its coverage in territorial waters depends on government approval.

"This (case) is different because it is bypassing all the legal channels. They directly operated (phones) with satellite, creating a Wi-Fi hotspot," Dhaliwal said.&nbsp;

He added that he has planned to get details from Starlink, like who purchased the device along with its usage history. "They (smugglers) were using Starlink since their journey started from Myanmar," he added.

According to the estimate of Andaman and Nicobar police, the retail market value of seized meth was 360 billion rupees ($4.25 billion).

According to Dhaliwal, the smugglers used the Starlink Mini device, which has been described as "a compact, portable kit that can easily fit in a backpack" on its website.

The police have said that they are investigating if there is any involvement of local or foreign syndicates in the whole network.

In its report, the UNODC said that India has been methamphetamine's growing transit and destination market.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian police on Tuesday (Dec 3) said that they will investigate Elon Musk-owned Starlink internet service in order to hunt down drug smugglers. The smugglers used a satellite internet device to navigate deep seas and to bring meth worth $4.

Indian police on Tuesday (Dec 3) said that they will investigate Elon Musk-owned Starlink internet service in order to hunt down drug smugglers. The smugglers used a satellite internet device to navigate deep seas and to bring meth worth $4.25 billion inside the Indian waters for the first time. The police made their biggest seizure as they uncovered more than 6,000 kg of meth in the remote outpost of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands last week in Myanmar. Also Read: Ready to 'engage' with Musk: Australian PM on social media teen ban The boat was filled with sacks of suspected contraband and six Myanmar nationals were detained after the seizure. Starlink gets dragged into smuggling case The incident for the first time brought into light how a device of Starlink was used for navigating and reaching Indian waters, which raised concerns, said Hargobinder S. Dhaliwal, who is the police officer in charge of the case, while speaking to Reuters. Watch: Indian Think Tank Flags Security Risks Posed by Starlink Starlink has earlier claimed that it covers international waters and is now planning to launch in India but has added that its coverage in territorial waters depends on government approval. "This (case) is different because it is bypassing all the legal channels. They directly operated (phones) with satellite, creating a Wi-Fi hotspot," Dhaliwal said. He added that he has planned to get details from Starlink, like who purchased the device along with its usage history. "They (smugglers) were using Starlink since their journey started from Myanmar," he added. According to the estimate of Andaman and Nicobar police, the retail market value of seized meth was 360 billion rupees ($4.25 billion). According to Dhaliwal, the smugglers used the Starlink Mini device, which has been described as "a compact, portable kit that can easily fit in a backpack" on its website. The police have said that they are investigating if there is any involvement of local or foreign syndicates in the whole network. In its report, the UNODC said that India has been methamphetamine's growing transit and destination market. (With inputs from agencies)

India set to investigate Starlink internet service to hunt down drug smugglers

A self-confessed smuggler narrated how he made more than 1,000 Vietnamese people enter the United Kingdom illegally and called this business "lucrative", while speaking to BBC.

The smuggler, who called himself Thanh, spoke about the ways in which criminal enterprises took advantage of migrants who wanted to cross the channel.

He said that Vietnamese travel a lot for work and because of lax EU work visa regulations, they now have a clear route to bring people to the UK from the Asian country.

In his interview with the BBC, Thanh said that he had appealed for asylum in Britain after he entered the country by crossing the channel on a small boat and paying double the amount which is paid by other migrants.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/10-indians-arrested-every-hour-for-trying-to-illegal-enter-us-in-last-one-year-reveals-data-770753"> 10 Indians arrested every hour for trying to enter US illegally in last one year, reveals data</a>

He said that he informed the UK authorities that he had been trafficked to increase the chances of asylum.

"That's the way it's done. [People lie] in order to continue the asylum process safely," he added.

<h2>Here's how smuggler made people enter UK illegally&nbsp;</h2>

Thanh said that when he was camping in a forest near Dunkirk, he first started to help people-smuggling gangs in exchange for £250 (approx. $324) for every successful trip.&nbsp;

He became famous among the gang of smugglers but he was caught and put behind bars in Europe.

After he was released, Thanh travelled to the UK and made efforts to leave behind the smuggling of people.

However, he said his reputation has forced him to make a living by forging documents for the new arrivals in the United Kingdom.

"People in Europe contacted me asking for help.&nbsp;I'd already helped about 1,000 people to get to the UK successfully, so I was well known for that success," Thanh said.

Watch:&nbsp;Migrants Held In Reception Centres In Albania Brought To Italy

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"I had a lot of clients. Depending on which embassy it was, we would provide forged bank statements or other documents. First, we would submit these online. If certain embassies needed to check with banks, then we'd put real cash into a bank account. We had arrangements with staff at certain banks," he added.&nbsp;

"The clients couldn't access the money themselves, but the bank staff would show the [falsified] details to embassy staff. We worked with lots of different types of Vietnamese banks," stated the smuggler.

Thanh said that he has now decided to speak about his criminal activities to make Vietnamese people understand that the journey to Europe is not worth it.

"I just want people in Vietnam to understand that it’s not worth borrowing lots of money to travel here. It’s not so easy for illegal arrivals to find work or make money. And when they do make money it’s less than in the past," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A self-confessed smuggler narrated how he made more than 1,000 Vietnamese people enter the United Kingdom illegally and called this business "lucrative", while speaking to BBC.

A self-confessed smuggler narrated how he made more than 1,000 Vietnamese people enter the United Kingdom illegally and called this business "lucrative", while speaking to BBC. The smuggler, who called himself Thanh, spoke about the ways in which criminal enterprises took advantage of migrants who wanted to cross the channel. He said that Vietnamese travel a lot for work and because of lax EU work visa regulations, they now have a clear route to bring people to the UK from the Asian country. In his interview with the BBC, Thanh said that he had appealed for asylum in Britain after he entered the country by crossing the channel on a small boat and paying double the amount which is paid by other migrants. Also Read: 10 Indians arrested every hour for trying to enter US illegally in last one year, reveals data He said that he informed the UK authorities that he had been trafficked to increase the chances of asylum. "That's the way it's done. [People lie] in order to continue the asylum process safely," he added. Here's how smuggler made people enter UK illegally Thanh said that when he was camping in a forest near Dunkirk, he first started to help people-smuggling gangs in exchange for £250 (approx. $324) for every successful trip. He became famous among the gang of smugglers but he was caught and put behind bars in Europe. After he was released, Thanh travelled to the UK and made efforts to leave behind the smuggling of people. However, he said his reputation has forced him to make a living by forging documents for the new arrivals in the United Kingdom. "People in Europe contacted me asking for help. I'd already helped about 1,000 people to get to the UK successfully, so I was well known for that success," Thanh said. Watch: Migrants Held In Reception Centres In Albania Brought To Italy "I had a lot of clients. Depending on which embassy it was, we would provide forged bank statements or other documents. First, we would submit these online. If certain embassies needed to check with banks, then we'd put real cash into a bank account. We had arrangements with staff at certain banks," he added. "The clients couldn't access the money themselves, but the bank staff would show the [falsified] details to embassy staff. We worked with lots of different types of Vietnamese banks," stated the smuggler. Thanh said that he has now decided to speak about his criminal activities to make Vietnamese people understand that the journey to Europe is not worth it. "I just want people in Vietnam to understand that it’s not worth borrowing lots of money to travel here. It’s not so easy for illegal arrivals to find work or make money. And when they do make money it’s less than in the past," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Smuggler confesses transporting 1,000 Vietnamese illegally into UK, forging visas

A Labour government would scrap Rwanda migrant deportation flights “straight away”, Sir Keir Starmer said. Watch to know more.

UK: Labour vows to scrap Rwanda scheme as polls loom

UK: Starmer eyes Rwanda Plan after Tory MP defects to join Labour

UK: Starmer vows crackdown on human smugglers amid Rwanda row

Federal prosecutors revealed on Wednesday (May 8) that a group of four commercial airline flight attendants exploited their security clearance to sneak in $8 million in drug money through JFK International Airport while capitalising on looser security protocols to funnel the illicit funds through airport checkpoints over several years. This was outlined in federal indictments unsealed by the US Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of New York, media reports said.&nbsp;

US Attorney Damian Williams, while highlighting the severity of the situation said, “These flight attendants smuggled millions of dollars of drug money and law enforcement funds that they thought was drug money from the United States to the Dominican Republic over many years by abusing their privileges as airline employees".

The investigation, conducted by Williams’ office and agents from the US Homeland Security Investigations’ El Dorado Task Force, employed confidential informants to dismantle the scheme. “Today’s charges should serve as a reminder to those who break the law by helping drug traffickers move their money that crime doesn’t pay,” Williams added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/intel-and-qualcomm-hit-as-us-halts-chip-exports-to-china-amid-security-concerns-719643">Intel and Qualcomm hit as US halts chip exports to China amid security concerns</a>

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The accused individuals - Jarol Fabio, Sarah Valerio Pujols, Charlie Fernandez, and Emmanuel Torres - allegedly initiated the trafficking as early as 2014, ferrying the money to the Dominican Republic under the guise of their flight attendant roles for various international airlines, names of which were not disclosed in media reports.&nbsp;

<section>
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Exploiting more lenient security measures for airline staff, the flight attendants managed to execute the scheme, receiving compensation, a portion of the drug proceeds, for their services as couriers.

Upon arrival in the DR, they transferred the cash to contacts involved in drug trafficking.
</section>

Ivan Arvelo, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations New York, said,&nbsp;“This investigation has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the airline security industry and has illuminated methods that narcotics traffickers are utilising."&nbsp;

“Today’s announcement should serve as a warning to all airline personnel,” Arvelo said in a statement adding, “HSI New York will not tolerate employees’ attempts to abuse their power for the sake of transporting illicit goods.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Federal prosecutors revealed on Wednesday (May 8) that a group of four commercial airline flight attendants exploited their security clearance to sneak in $8 million in drug money through JFK International Airport while capitalising on looser security protocols to funnel the illicit funds through airport checkpoints over several years.

Federal prosecutors revealed on Wednesday (May 8) that a group of four commercial airline flight attendants exploited their security clearance to sneak in $8 million in drug money through JFK International Airport while capitalising on looser security protocols to funnel the illicit funds through airport checkpoints over several years. This was outlined in federal indictments unsealed by the US Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of New York, media reports said. US Attorney Damian Williams, while highlighting the severity of the situation said, “These flight attendants smuggled millions of dollars of drug money and law enforcement funds that they thought was drug money from the United States to the Dominican Republic over many years by abusing their privileges as airline employees". The investigation, conducted by Williams’ office and agents from the US Homeland Security Investigations’ El Dorado Task Force, employed confidential informants to dismantle the scheme. “Today’s charges should serve as a reminder to those who break the law by helping drug traffickers move their money that crime doesn’t pay,” Williams added. Also Read | Intel and Qualcomm hit as US halts chip exports to China amid security concerns Also Read | Eight injured in Ukrainian attacks on Russia's Belgorod, says governor The accused individuals - Jarol Fabio, Sarah Valerio Pujols, Charlie Fernandez, and Emmanuel Torres - allegedly initiated the trafficking as early as 2014, ferrying the money to the Dominican Republic under the guise of their flight attendant roles for various international airlines, names of which were not disclosed in media reports. Watch | Israel war: Biden threatens Israel of weapons & artillery shells supply cut × Exploiting more lenient security measures for airline staff, the flight attendants managed to execute the scheme, receiving compensation, a portion of the drug proceeds, for their services as couriers. Upon arrival in the DR, they transferred the cash to contacts involved in drug trafficking. Ivan Arvelo, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations New York, said, “This investigation has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the airline security industry and has illuminated methods that narcotics traffickers are utilising." “Today’s announcement should serve as a warning to all airline personnel,” Arvelo said in a statement adding, “HSI New York will not tolerate employees’ attempts to abuse their power for the sake of transporting illicit goods.” (With inputs from agencies)

Flight attendants busted for funneling $8mn drug money through JFK airport using security clearance

Four foreign people were transported to the United States to face criminal charges; they appeared in court on Thursday. The four were allegedly smuggling Iranian-made weapons on a vessel that two U.S. Navy SEALs drowned trying to board.

Four accused smugglers face charges following the deaths of Navy SEALs

Four accused smugglers face charges following the deaths of Navy SEALs in the Arabian Sea

A Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) sepoy was killed by a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan (soldier) along the India-Bangladesh international border in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Monday (Jan 22) during an attempt to foil a cattle smuggling bid.

A Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) sepoy was killed by a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan (soldier) along the India-Bangladesh international border in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Monday (Jan 22) during an attempt to foil a cattle smuggling bid. The BGB sepoy was not in uniform and allegedly 'disguised as a cattle smuggler', according to a PTI report. The incident transpired when a group of Bangladeshi cattle smugglers attempted to cross over to India by breaching the newly installed barbed wire fence. The Indian soldier noticed the group of unidentified individuals, engaging in suspicious activities and approached them. "When the jawan confronted the smugglers, they, realising that he was alone, surrounded him and attacked him using sharp-edged sickles," a BSF official stated. Upon being attacked, the soldier engaged in self-defence and retaliated by opening fire. Consequently, one of the attackers, who turned out to be a BGB sepoy, suffered injuries. The rest of the attackers utilised the heavy fog in the area to evade the Indian soldier and managed to hop over to the other side of the fence with the cattle. After the incident, during a flag meeting, BGB informed BSF that one of its personnel was missing and suspected he had crossed into the Indian side. "Hearing the sound of fire, other jawans reached the spot and immediately removed the injured man and got him admitted to a government hospital in Bongaon, where he died during treatment. During a thorough search, one animal and some sharp weapons were found at the site," BSF said. "Upon identification from a photograph, it was known that the deceased man was Mohammad Riyasudin, serving as a sepoy in BGB, and was moving with cattle smugglers," it added. Additionally, BSF apprised the Ministry of External Affairs and Bangladesh High Commission in Kolkata of the incident. Also watch | Communal violence in Bangladesh, ISKCON members demand justice Cattle smuggling Cattle smuggling is a big problem in the border areas, especially the 4,096-km-long India-Bangladesh border. According to various estimates, more than two million Indian cattle are smuggled to Bangladesh every year. The demand for cattle in Bangladesh is high throughout the year but it usually peaks before Eid and other Islamic festivals. Also read | Assam Rifles soldier opens fire at colleagues in Manipur near Myanmar border There have been reports that the Bangladeshi border security is often hand in glove with the smugglers and help them in ferrying the contraband cattle. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladeshi sepoy ‘disguised as cattle smuggler’ shot dead by BSF in West Bengal

Nine Egyptian men suspected of belonging to a smuggling ring that crewed the capsized ship off Greece were charged with human trafficking and remanded in pretrial custody Tuesday.&nbsp;

The suspects had survived the sinking but were soon arrested from the port of Kalamata last week. A court in the city ordered their detention after questioning them for over 10 hours. &nbsp;

The arrests were a result of two days of interviews with the survivors, cross-referencing the information and honing down the possibilities of who among the survivors might have been part of the trafficking ring that profited from this enterprise.

The men detained are between 20 and 40 years old and if convicted of manslaughter and forming a criminal organisation charges, face a sentence of up to life imprisonment.&nbsp;

<h2>Death count up&nbsp;</h2>

The death toll from the sinking of the fishing ship climbed to 82 on Tuesday, authorities informed. The boat with over 750 people onboard, including 100 children was bound for Italy hwn it sank.&nbsp;

The testimonies have reportedly revealed that the boat's engine failed days before it sank.

“We started the journey at dawn on Friday. Around 700 of us were on board,” a migrant told the coastguard as per The Guardian.

“We were travelling for three days and then the engine failed.”

Survivors say the boat was practically packed in every corner and had no lifeboats or any safety measures in place.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-declares-three-days-mourning-over-migrant-boat-tragedy-604817">Watch |&nbsp;Greece declares three days' mourning over migrant boat tragedy</a>

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Going by the assessment of one of the migrants on the boat, everyone paid at least $4,000 to $5,000 to undertake the voyage, meaning, the entire ship and its human cargo was worth in excess of $3.5 million.&nbsp;

<h2>Pakistani migrants discriminated&nbsp;</h2>

Even then, the Egyptian smugglers forced the Pakistani migrants to go below deck while other nationalities stayed on the upper deck where&nbsp;they stood a greater chance of surviving in the event the boat sank, which it did.

Pakistani media is reporting that at least 298 Pakistanis died in the tragedy out of which 135 were from the Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-boat-tragedy-pakistanis-were-singled-out-to-go-below-deck-says-report-606011">Also read |&nbsp;Greece boat tragedy: Pakistanis were singled out to go below deck, says report</a>

The authorities fear that by the time the rescue operation concludes, the death toll could run into hundreds.&nbsp;

"We are witnessing one of the biggest tragedies in the Mediterranean and the numbers announced by the authorities are devastating," the UN International Organization for Migration said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Nine Egyptian men suspected of belonging to a smuggling ring that crewed the capsized ship off Greece were charged with human trafficking and remanded in pretrial custody Tuesday.

Nine Egyptian men suspected of belonging to a smuggling ring that crewed the capsized ship off Greece were charged with human trafficking and remanded in pretrial custody Tuesday. The suspects had survived the sinking but were soon arrested from the port of Kalamata last week. A court in the city ordered their detention after questioning them for over 10 hours. The arrests were a result of two days of interviews with the survivors, cross-referencing the information and honing down the possibilities of who among the survivors might have been part of the trafficking ring that profited from this enterprise. The men detained are between 20 and 40 years old and if convicted of manslaughter and forming a criminal organisation charges, face a sentence of up to life imprisonment. Death count up The death toll from the sinking of the fishing ship climbed to 82 on Tuesday, authorities informed. The boat with over 750 people onboard, including 100 children was bound for Italy hwn it sank. The testimonies have reportedly revealed that the boat's engine failed days before it sank. “We started the journey at dawn on Friday. Around 700 of us were on board,” a migrant told the coastguard as per The Guardian. “We were travelling for three days and then the engine failed.” Survivors say the boat was practically packed in every corner and had no lifeboats or any safety measures in place. Watch | Greece declares three days' mourning over migrant boat tragedy × Going by the assessment of one of the migrants on the boat, everyone paid at least $4,000 to $5,000 to undertake the voyage, meaning, the entire ship and its human cargo was worth in excess of $3.5 million. Pakistani migrants discriminated Even then, the Egyptian smugglers forced the Pakistani migrants to go below deck while other nationalities stayed on the upper deck where they stood a greater chance of surviving in the event the boat sank, which it did. Pakistani media is reporting that at least 298 Pakistanis died in the tragedy out of which 135 were from the Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). Also read | Greece boat tragedy: Pakistanis were singled out to go below deck, says report The authorities fear that by the time the rescue operation concludes, the death toll could run into hundreds. "We are witnessing one of the biggest tragedies in the Mediterranean and the numbers announced by the authorities are devastating," the UN International Organization for Migration said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Court detains nine smuggling suspects in Greece migrant ship tragedy, death toll climbs to 82

The Greek authorities have arrested nine survivors from the fishing boat that capsized and sank 80 kilometres off the country's coast. They have been arrested on suspicions of belonging to the smuggling ring that had arranged the fateful voyage.&nbsp;

The nine arrested are all Egyptian nationals and include the captain of the dilapidated vessel.&nbsp;They were rounded up from the port of Kalamata where the survivors are being cared for at the moment.&nbsp;

The arrests were a result of two days of interviews with the survivors, "cross-referencing the information and honing down the possibilities of who among the survivors might have been part of the trafficking ring that profited from this enterprise and the profits are enormous", according to an Al-Jazeera report.&nbsp;

The publication stated that going by the assessment of one of the migrants on the boat, everyone on board paid at least $4,000 to $5,000 to undertake the voyage,&nbsp;meaning, the entire ship and its human cargo was worth in excess of $3.5 million.&nbsp;

The boat was spotted in international waters late on Tuesday by an aircraft that belonged to the European Union border agency Frontex, around 50 miles (80 km) southwest of the town of Pylos in southern Greece, said the coast guard. The boat was headed to Italy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-die-several-missing-after-boat-capsizes-and-sinks-off-greece-604406">Also read |&nbsp;At least 78 die, several missing after boat capsizes and sinks off Greece</a>

As per AFP reports, the rescue operation included navy vessels, an army plane, a helicopter and six other boats that were in the area.

"Since very early Wednesday, an extensive rescue operation is underway off Pylos, after a fishing boat capsized with a large number of migrants onboard," the coast guard said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-declares-three-days-mourning-over-migrant-boat-tragedy-604817">Watch |&nbsp;Greece declares three days' mourning over migrant boat tragedy</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>100 children were onboard</h2>

The authorities fear that by the time the rescue operation concludes, the death toll could run into hundreds.&nbsp;

"We are witnessing one of the biggest tragedies in the Mediterranean and the numbers announced by the authorities are devastating," the UN International Organization for Migration said.&nbsp;

Survivors say the boat was practically packed in every corner and had no lifeboats or any safety measures in place. Some unconfirmed reports say as many as 750 people were onboard including 100 children.&nbsp;

“The fishing boat was 25-30 metres long. Its deck was full of people, and we assume the interior was just as full," a coastguard spokesperson said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

The Greek authorities have arrested nine survivors from the fishing boat that capsized and sank 80 kilometres off the country's coast. They have been arrested on suspicions of belonging to the smuggling ring that had arranged the fateful voyage.

The Greek authorities have arrested nine survivors from the fishing boat that capsized and sank 80 kilometres off the country's coast. They have been arrested on suspicions of belonging to the smuggling ring that had arranged the fateful voyage. The nine arrested are all Egyptian nationals and include the captain of the dilapidated vessel. They were rounded up from the port of Kalamata where the survivors are being cared for at the moment. The arrests were a result of two days of interviews with the survivors, "cross-referencing the information and honing down the possibilities of who among the survivors might have been part of the trafficking ring that profited from this enterprise and the profits are enormous", according to an Al-Jazeera report. The publication stated that going by the assessment of one of the migrants on the boat, everyone on board paid at least $4,000 to $5,000 to undertake the voyage, meaning, the entire ship and its human cargo was worth in excess of $3.5 million. The boat was spotted in international waters late on Tuesday by an aircraft that belonged to the European Union border agency Frontex, around 50 miles (80 km) southwest of the town of Pylos in southern Greece, said the coast guard. The boat was headed to Italy. Also read | At least 78 die, several missing after boat capsizes and sinks off Greece As per AFP reports, the rescue operation included navy vessels, an army plane, a helicopter and six other boats that were in the area. "Since very early Wednesday, an extensive rescue operation is underway off Pylos, after a fishing boat capsized with a large number of migrants onboard," the coast guard said. Watch | Greece declares three days' mourning over migrant boat tragedy × 100 children were onboard The authorities fear that by the time the rescue operation concludes, the death toll could run into hundreds. "We are witnessing one of the biggest tragedies in the Mediterranean and the numbers announced by the authorities are devastating," the UN International Organization for Migration said. Survivors say the boat was practically packed in every corner and had no lifeboats or any safety measures in place. Some unconfirmed reports say as many as 750 people were onboard including 100 children. “The fishing boat was 25-30 metres long. Its deck was full of people, and we assume the interior was just as full," a coastguard spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nine Egyptian nationals arrested for trafficking after Greece migrant ship tragedy

Recently a video uploaded by Indian Forest Service officer Susanta Nanda on his Twitter handle, the video featuring a group of black ants lifting up a gold chain that looks quite heavy and surprisingly ants were seen moving it effortlessly on a rather difficult path for them. IFS officer gave a quirky caption to the video.

He wrote, "Tiny gold smugglers. The question is under which section of IPC they can be booked?"

Have you ever seen cute tiny smugglers stealing gold? Has a rather 'immoral' act left you in 'awe' of the situation?

If you're among the ones who haven't seen anything like this yet, watch this bizarre yet cute incident in this viral video.

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Tiny gold smugglers 😀😀 
The question is,under which section of IPC they can be booked? <a href="https://t.co/IAtUYSnWpv">pic.twitter.com/IAtUYSnWpv</a>
— Susanta Nanda IFS (@susantananda3) <a href="https://twitter.com/susantananda3/status/1541768973381177344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A user dropped a comment, "Right example for 'UNITY IS STRENGTH'."

"Sir, Tell me where we will find such smugglers. Can we use them in flights. Tell their address," added another user.

Users also bombarded the post with hilarious comments: "I'm hiring them no resume required. Salary:- 12 sugar sacs/year(100kg sacs)"

Another quirky comment was, "Do cross check there base (ants home) You might find some more gold there."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-protesters-storm-and-set-fire-to-libyan-parliament-in-tobruk-493853">In pics: Protesters storm and set fire to Libyan parliament in Tobruk</a>

The video which has over 160K views on Instagram, continues to melt hearts. What do you think about these cute smugglers?

Another user tried to put the ants' 'collective effort' in perspective, they wrote, "Ants are pulled or pushed 400 times its body weight !! Maybe the gold chine is 30 grm ! The average Weight of an ant is 0.002 grm ! Around 50 to 60 ants are trying to push and pull that !!

(with inputs from agencies)

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Recently a video uploaded by Indian Forest Service officer Susanta Nanda on his Twitter handle, the video featuring a group of black ants lifting up a gold chain that looks quite heavy and surprisingly ants were seen moving it effortlessly on a rather difficult path for them.

Recently a video uploaded by Indian Forest Service officer Susanta Nanda on his Twitter handle, the video featuring a group of black ants lifting up a gold chain that looks quite heavy and surprisingly ants were seen moving it effortlessly on a rather difficult path for them. IFS officer gave a quirky caption to the video. He wrote, "Tiny gold smugglers. The question is under which section of IPC they can be booked?" Have you ever seen cute tiny smugglers stealing gold? Has a rather 'immoral' act left you in 'awe' of the situation? If you're among the ones who haven't seen anything like this yet, watch this bizarre yet cute incident in this viral video. Tiny gold smugglers 😀😀 The question is,under which section of IPC they can be booked? pic.twitter.com/IAtUYSnWpv — Susanta Nanda IFS (@susantananda3) June 28, 2022 × A user dropped a comment, "Right example for 'UNITY IS STRENGTH'." "Sir, Tell me where we will find such smugglers. Can we use them in flights. Tell their address," added another user. Users also bombarded the post with hilarious comments: "I'm hiring them no resume required. Salary:- 12 sugar sacs/year(100kg sacs)" Another quirky comment was, "Do cross check there base (ants home) You might find some more gold there." Also Read: In pics: Protesters storm and set fire to Libyan parliament in Tobruk The video which has over 160K views on Instagram, continues to melt hearts. What do you think about these cute smugglers? Another user tried to put the ants' 'collective effort' in perspective, they wrote, "Ants are pulled or pushed 400 times its body weight !! Maybe the gold chine is 30 grm ! The average Weight of an ant is 0.002 grm ! Around 50 to 60 ants are trying to push and pull that !! (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Want to meet cute little gold smugglers? These ants will leave you in awe

Four men “of Arab nationality” have been held in Dubai for making an attempt to smuggle captagon pills concealed in fake lemons into the UAE, the police said on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After a tip-off, the drugs worth $15.8 million, as assessed by the official WAM news agency, were seized, police Major General Khalil Ibrahim Al Mansouri said. In total, there were around 1,160,500 pills. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%B7%D8%A9_%D8%AF%D8%A8%D9%8A?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#شرطة_دبي</a> تحبط تهريب أكثر من مليون قرص كبتاغون في شحنات استيراد الليمون في عملية أطلق عليها أسم “66”. <a href="https://t.co/iilogKBZ15">pic.twitter.com/iilogKBZ15</a>
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DubaiPoliceHQ/status/1473978754791788544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Manufactured mostly in Lebanon, this drug, Captagon, is an amphetamine-type stimulant. It is usually sent to Saudi Arabia. &nbsp;&nbsp;

For years, people around the world have been trying to smuggle drugs innovatively. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jolt-for-merck-as-france-cancels-order-for-covid-antiviral-drug-439397" hreflang="en">Jolt for Merck as France cancels order for Covid antiviral drug</a>

The four suspects, who live in the UAE, belong to the same Arab country. &nbsp;

The pills were “hidden in fake lemons in a shipment of lemons inside an incoming refrigerated container,” added Mansouri. &nbsp;

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In an operation dubbed “66”, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubaiPolice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubaiPolice</a> uncovers AED 58 million worth of captagon pills hidden in lemon shipment. <a href="https://t.co/UamNYy48TX">pic.twitter.com/UamNYy48TX</a>
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DubaiPoliceHQ/status/1473976463154155536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to the police, there were “3,840 boxes of lemons, 66 of which had fake lemons containing the captagon pills”. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-pfizer-vaccine-philippines-approves-purchase-of-mercks-covid-19-pill-439333" hreflang="en">After Pfizer vaccine, Philippines approves purchase of Merck's COVID-19 pill</a>

On Twitter, Dubai Police HQ said, “In an operation dubbed “66”, the Dubai Police uncovers AED 58 million worth of captagon pills hidden in lemon shipment.” &nbsp;

The Dubai Police has also shared a video of the whole operation. It showed boxes had markings, indicating the origin as Lebanon. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Four men “of Arab nationality” have been held in Dubai for making an attempt to smuggle captagon pills concealed in fake lemons into the UAE, the police said on Thursday.

Four men “of Arab nationality” have been held in Dubai for making an attempt to smuggle captagon pills concealed in fake lemons into the UAE, the police said on Thursday. After a tip-off, the drugs worth $15.8 million, as assessed by the official WAM news agency, were seized, police Major General Khalil Ibrahim Al Mansouri said. In total, there were around 1,160,500 pills. #شرطة_دبي تحبط تهريب أكثر من مليون قرص كبتاغون في شحنات استيراد الليمون في عملية أطلق عليها أسم “66”. pic.twitter.com/iilogKBZ15 — Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) December 23, 2021 × Manufactured mostly in Lebanon, this drug, Captagon, is an amphetamine-type stimulant. It is usually sent to Saudi Arabia. For years, people around the world have been trying to smuggle drugs innovatively. Also Read: Jolt for Merck as France cancels order for Covid antiviral drug The four suspects, who live in the UAE, belong to the same Arab country. The pills were “hidden in fake lemons in a shipment of lemons inside an incoming refrigerated container,” added Mansouri. In an operation dubbed “66”, the #DubaiPolice uncovers AED 58 million worth of captagon pills hidden in lemon shipment. pic.twitter.com/UamNYy48TX — Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) December 23, 2021 × According to the police, there were “3,840 boxes of lemons, 66 of which had fake lemons containing the captagon pills”. Also Read: After Pfizer vaccine, Philippines approves purchase of Merck's COVID-19 pill On Twitter, Dubai Police HQ said, “In an operation dubbed “66”, the Dubai Police uncovers AED 58 million worth of captagon pills hidden in lemon shipment.” The Dubai Police has also shared a video of the whole operation. It showed boxes had markings, indicating the origin as Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Police nab four Arab ‘lemon’ smugglers, seize consignment worth $15.8 million in Dubai

The United States on Thursday announced $ 2 million rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and "human smuggler" Abid Ali Khan - one million USD for information leading to the arrest and another one million USD for information leading to the financial disruption of his network.

US State Department spokesperson said that Ali Khan allegedly operates a Pakistani-based smuggling network that facilitates the travel of undocumented individuals into the United States from the middle-east and southwest Asia in exchange for payment.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-us-naval-commander-hosts-senior-indian-navy-officers-aboard-uss-carl-vinson-420814">Top US naval commander hosts senior Indian Navy officers aboard USS Carl Vinson</a>

In addition to planning and coordinating the international travel from Pakistan through multiple countries, Ali Khan allegedly offered or provided false documents for foreign nationals to use for travel.

"Today, the Department of State is announcing two rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and human smuggler Abid Ali Khan.

The first reward of up to $1 million is offered for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Ali Khan, while a second $1 million reward is offered for information leading to the financial disruption of Ali Khan's human smuggling network," the spokesperson said in a statement.

It said smuggling organizations like Ali Khan's take advantage of vulnerable populations, pose high risk, and gravely endanger the individuals being smuggled.

"Persons smuggled to the United States are often subject to perilous travel through South and Central America, which can involve many days of walking through difficult terrain with little food or water, with many falling victim to robbery and abuse during the journey."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/56-in-us-feel-cheating-affected-2020-presidential-election-outcome-says-poll-420060">56% in US feel cheating affected 2020 presidential election outcome, says poll</a>

On April 7, the US&nbsp;Department of Justice unsealed a federal indictment filed in the Eastern District of Virginia charging Ali Khan with Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States, Encouraging and Inducing an Alien to Unlawfully Entering the United States, and Bringing an Alien to the United States.

On the same date, the Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against Ali Khan and the Ali Khan Transnational Criminal Organization pursuant to Executive Order 13581 "Blocking Property of Transnational Criminal Organizations," stemming from the same criminal conduct.

The statement said these rewards are offered under the Department of State's Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP).

More than 75 transnational criminals and major narcotics traffickers have been brought to justice under the TOCRP and the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) since 1986, with the Department paying more than $135 million in rewards to date.

The State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs manages the TOCRP in close coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, DHS/Homeland Security Investigations, and other US&nbsp;government agencies.

The United States on Thursday announced $ 2 million rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and "human smuggler" Abid Ali Khan - one million USD for information leading to the arrest and another one million USD for information leading to the financial disruption of his network.

The United States on Thursday announced $ 2 million rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and "human smuggler" Abid Ali Khan - one million USD for information leading to the arrest and another one million USD for information leading to the financial disruption of his network. US State Department spokesperson said that Ali Khan allegedly operates a Pakistani-based smuggling network that facilitates the travel of undocumented individuals into the United States from the middle-east and southwest Asia in exchange for payment. Also Read | Top US naval commander hosts senior Indian Navy officers aboard USS Carl Vinson In addition to planning and coordinating the international travel from Pakistan through multiple countries, Ali Khan allegedly offered or provided false documents for foreign nationals to use for travel. "Today, the Department of State is announcing two rewards for information regarding Pakistani national and human smuggler Abid Ali Khan. The first reward of up to $1 million is offered for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Ali Khan, while a second $1 million reward is offered for information leading to the financial disruption of Ali Khan's human smuggling network," the spokesperson said in a statement. It said smuggling organizations like Ali Khan's take advantage of vulnerable populations, pose high risk, and gravely endanger the individuals being smuggled. "Persons smuggled to the United States are often subject to perilous travel through South and Central America, which can involve many days of walking through difficult terrain with little food or water, with many falling victim to robbery and abuse during the journey." Also Read | 56% in US feel cheating affected 2020 presidential election outcome, says poll On April 7, the US Department of Justice unsealed a federal indictment filed in the Eastern District of Virginia charging Ali Khan with Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States, Encouraging and Inducing an Alien to Unlawfully Entering the United States, and Bringing an Alien to the United States. On the same date, the Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against Ali Khan and the Ali Khan Transnational Criminal Organization pursuant to Executive Order 13581 "Blocking Property of Transnational Criminal Organizations," stemming from the same criminal conduct. The statement said these rewards are offered under the Department of State's Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP). More than 75 transnational criminals and major narcotics traffickers have been brought to justice under the TOCRP and the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) since 1986, with the Department paying more than $135 million in rewards to date. The State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs manages the TOCRP in close coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, DHS/Homeland Security Investigations, and other US government agencies.

US announces reward for arrest of Pakistani 'human smuggler'

Smugglers are now abandoning children at the US border. A video - captured by US border authorities showed a smuggler dropping two kids over the US-Mexico border wall. WION's Paki tells you why America's migrant crisis could get worse.

Gravitas: Smugglers are dropping kids over the US - Mexico border wall

Several Iranian coastguard personnel were wounded after protesters attacked the coastguard base, said local media. As per the reports, the clash erupted after a young man was killed in a confrontation between the coastguard and fuel smugglers.

The incident occurred Friday after smugglers in boats in the Sirik area of the Hormuz Strait ignored coastguard warning shots, ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper quoted their provincial commander Hossein Dehaki as saying.

Dehaki was quoted as saying that the guards opened fire after they came under attack from the smugglers with fire bombs and other projectiles.

Iranian media said a 31-year-old Sirik resident was killed. 
Hours later, villagers gathered outside the base to demonstrate against the killing, according to state television's Iribnews website, citing a local official.

Dehaki said the protesters, spurred on by "opponents" of the Islamic republic, launched an assault on the coastguard building, seriously injuring several members of the force and causing heavy damage.

This violence has come less than three weeks after deadly clashes with fuel smugglers in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province that borders Pakistan.

The UN Human Rights Office said at least 12 people were reportedly killed, two of them minors, and accused Iranian security forces of using excessive force.

(With AFP inputs)

Several Iranian coastguard personnel were wounded after protesters attacked the coastguard base, said local media. As per the reports, the clash erupted after a young man was killed in a confrontation between the coastguard and fuel smugglers.

Several Iranian coastguard personnel were wounded after protesters attacked the coastguard base, said local media. As per the reports, the clash erupted after a young man was killed in a confrontation between the coastguard and fuel smugglers. The incident occurred Friday after smugglers in boats in the Sirik area of the Hormuz Strait ignored coastguard warning shots, ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper quoted their provincial commander Hossein Dehaki as saying. Dehaki was quoted as saying that the guards opened fire after they came under attack from the smugglers with fire bombs and other projectiles. Iranian media said a 31-year-old Sirik resident was killed. Hours later, villagers gathered outside the base to demonstrate against the killing, according to state television's Iribnews website, citing a local official. Dehaki said the protesters, spurred on by "opponents" of the Islamic republic, launched an assault on the coastguard building, seriously injuring several members of the force and causing heavy damage. This violence has come less than three weeks after deadly clashes with fuel smugglers in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province that borders Pakistan. The UN Human Rights Office said at least 12 people were reportedly killed, two of them minors, and accused Iranian security forces of using excessive force. (With AFP inputs)

Protesters attack Iran coastguard base, several persons wounded

Officers of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau have come across interesting facts on the successful conclusion to Operation Turtshield.

Operation Turtshield which concluded in February this year was launched to prevent smuggling and trading of protected species of turtles in parts of India – especially West Bengal.

As a part of the Operation, a joint operation was carried out by Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and West Bengal Forest Department, which threw light on a new modus operandi where members from Uttar Pradesh’s Kanjar community collect ‘softshell turtles’ from Chambal river or Ganga river of Uttar Pradesh and carry it to West Bengal for either consumption of its meat or smuggling it to neighbouring Bangladesh.

“A recent arrest where as many as 22 persons were apprehended, eight women and children were part of the smugglers' group. This huge group had stuffed the turtles in school bags and were divided into different coaches of the train to evade arrest and prevent suspicion. This is a new modus operandi where the smugglers travel in the train with their family members to stay away from investigating agencies,” said Agni Mitra, Regional Deputy Director, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau.

According to officers in Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, West Bengal is the only state in the country that consumes meat of softshell turtle in a particular area stretching between Bongaon and Barasat in the North 24 Parganas district. This stretch houses Hindu communities displaced in Bangladesh who came and settled in this particular area who consume turtle meat. This species of turtle is also smuggled to Bangladesh for pet purposes.

“The Soft Shell Turtle is a species enlisted in the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as threatened species and also is enlisted as highest protection species considering the demand and trading of it,” added Mitra.

From Jan 2019 to Jan 2020 – a total of 3734 live turtles, 117 dead turtles were seized in Bengal. In the last one year, as many as 35 persons including kingpins and carriers have been arrested and five vehicles seized who were engaged in smuggling of Soft Shell Turtles.

Officers of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau have come across interesting facts on the successful conclusion to Operation Turtshield. Operation Turtshield which concluded in February this year was launched to prevent smuggling and trading of protected species of turtles in parts of India – especially West Bengal.

Officers of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau have come across interesting facts on the successful conclusion to Operation Turtshield. Operation Turtshield which concluded in February this year was launched to prevent smuggling and trading of protected species of turtles in parts of India – especially West Bengal. As a part of the Operation, a joint operation was carried out by Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and West Bengal Forest Department, which threw light on a new modus operandi where members from Uttar Pradesh’s Kanjar community collect ‘softshell turtles’ from Chambal river or Ganga river of Uttar Pradesh and carry it to West Bengal for either consumption of its meat or smuggling it to neighbouring Bangladesh. “A recent arrest where as many as 22 persons were apprehended, eight women and children were part of the smugglers' group. This huge group had stuffed the turtles in school bags and were divided into different coaches of the train to evade arrest and prevent suspicion. This is a new modus operandi where the smugglers travel in the train with their family members to stay away from investigating agencies,” said Agni Mitra, Regional Deputy Director, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. According to officers in Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, West Bengal is the only state in the country that consumes meat of softshell turtle in a particular area stretching between Bongaon and Barasat in the North 24 Parganas district. This stretch houses Hindu communities displaced in Bangladesh who came and settled in this particular area who consume turtle meat. This species of turtle is also smuggled to Bangladesh for pet purposes. “The Soft Shell Turtle is a species enlisted in the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as threatened species and also is enlisted as highest protection species considering the demand and trading of it,” added Mitra. From Jan 2019 to Jan 2020 – a total of 3734 live turtles, 117 dead turtles were seized in Bengal. In the last one year, as many as 35 persons including kingpins and carriers have been arrested and five vehicles seized who were engaged in smuggling of Soft Shell Turtles.

Operation Turtshield successful: Smugglers travel with family and hide turtles in school bags to evade arrest and suspicion

Gold worth over Rs 110 crore was seized from smugglers by customs officials at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International airport during the last year, according to an official statement issued Wednesday.

A total of 340 cases of gold smuggling, an increase of 58 per cent as compared to the cases filed in 2017, were registered by the customs in 2018, it said.

In these, 402.48 kilograms of gold, valuing Rs 113.83 crore, were seized and 262 persons were arrested, the statement issued by the customs said.

There were 57 cases of smuggling of foreign currencies during the year, in which forex worth Rs 22.27 crore were seized. A total of 38 persons were arrested in these cases, it said.

In 2017, there were 215 cases of gold smuggling at the Delhi airport. The customs officials seized 242.5 kilograms of the yellow metal in these cases and arrested 143 people.

In 35 cases of forex smuggling during 2017, a total of 18 persons were arrested and foreign currencies worth Rs 10.75 crore were seized.

"A comparative analysis reveals that there was a 58 per cent increase in the number of gold smuggling cases booked which resulted in a 65.90 per cent increase in the quantity of smuggled gold seized," the Delhi customs said.

Similarly, a 62.85 per cent increase in the number of foreign currency cases booked resulted in a 107.05 per cent increase in the value of foreign currency seized, it said.

"The increase in gold smuggling cases show that people still consider it as a safe investment option. There is a strong need to deter people's love for gold," a senior customs official said.

There was also seizure of narcotics at the Delhi airport in the last year.

"Whereas there were no cocaine seizures during 2017, three foreign nationals were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, during 2018.

These cases involved the seizure of 2.35 kilograms of cocaine worth approximately Rs 13.50 crore in the international narcotics market," the customs department said.

A total of 340 cases of gold smuggling, an increase of 58 per cent as compared to the cases filed in 2017, were registered by the customs in 2018, an official statement said.

Gold worth over Rs 110 crore was seized from smugglers by customs officials at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International airport during the last year, according to an official statement issued Wednesday. A total of 340 cases of gold smuggling, an increase of 58 per cent as compared to the cases filed in 2017, were registered by the customs in 2018, it said. In these, 402.48 kilograms of gold, valuing Rs 113.83 crore, were seized and 262 persons were arrested, the statement issued by the customs said. There were 57 cases of smuggling of foreign currencies during the year, in which forex worth Rs 22.27 crore were seized. A total of 38 persons were arrested in these cases, it said. In 2017, there were 215 cases of gold smuggling at the Delhi airport. The customs officials seized 242.5 kilograms of the yellow metal in these cases and arrested 143 people. In 35 cases of forex smuggling during 2017, a total of 18 persons were arrested and foreign currencies worth Rs 10.75 crore were seized. "A comparative analysis reveals that there was a 58 per cent increase in the number of gold smuggling cases booked which resulted in a 65.90 per cent increase in the quantity of smuggled gold seized," the Delhi customs said. Similarly, a 62.85 per cent increase in the number of foreign currency cases booked resulted in a 107.05 per cent increase in the value of foreign currency seized, it said. "The increase in gold smuggling cases show that people still consider it as a safe investment option. There is a strong need to deter people's love for gold," a senior customs official said. There was also seizure of narcotics at the Delhi airport in the last year. "Whereas there were no cocaine seizures during 2017, three foreign nationals were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, during 2018. These cases involved the seizure of 2.35 kilograms of cocaine worth approximately Rs 13.50 crore in the international narcotics market," the customs department said.

Gold worth over Rs 110 crore seized at Delhi airport in 2018

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