Nepalese Nationals Caught Smuggling Gold and Silver at India-Nepal Border

In a recent operation, two Nepalese nationals were apprehended by the Sashastra Seema Bal while attempting to smuggle undeclared gold and silver across the India-Nepal border. The incident occurred during routine checks at the New Mechi Bridge, where authorities discovered various gold and silver items in their vehicle. The suspects failed to provide documentation for the precious metals, raising concerns about smuggling activities in the region. This case is part of a larger trend of smuggling across the border, prompting further investigations into the origins and potential antique value of the seized items.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 17, 2026, 14:18 IST

Seizure of Precious Metals at the Border

Photo: @ians_india/X

Kolkata, Aug 17: Authorities apprehended two individuals from Nepal for attempting to smuggle undeclared gold and silver across the India-Nepal border in West Bengal, as reported by officials.

The Border Intelligence Team (BIT) from the 41st Battalion of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) was conducting standard inspections at the New Mechi Bridge when they stopped a Maruti Suzuki WagonR that was traveling from Nepal to India on Sunday afternoon.

"During the inspection of the vehicle's baggage, officers discovered gold and silver items, including bars and various ornaments. The haul included a gold bar, chains, pendants, bangles, and a bracelet, along with silver bars and clubs," stated a senior official.

The two men in the vehicle were unable to present any documentation or justify their failure to declare the precious metals at the customs checkpoint.

The suspects have been identified as Bharat Kumar Agrawal, aged 68, from Indrachowk in Kathmandu, and Rajesh Oli, aged 48, from Jhapa, who was driving the car.

Smuggling gold into India via Nepal is a frequent occurrence, as the border allows free movement for citizens of both nations.

Officials are also investigating whether the seized ornaments possess any antique significance, as smuggling of antiques from Nepal is also prevalent.

The apprehended individuals, their vehicle, and the confiscated items have been transferred to the Customs Office at Panitanki for further legal proceedings under Section 110 of the Customs Act, 1962.

In recent months, the SSB has made several notable seizures, including large sums of cash being smuggled into Nepal by Indian nationals.

Additionally, a Bangladeshi citizen was detained while attempting to enter India from Nepal without proper documentation.

There have also been instances of narcotics seizures. Recently, SSB personnel thwarted a trafficking attempt and rescued a 17-year-old girl from Jalpaiguri, who was being taken across the border into Nepal. One individual linked to this operation was arrested.