Massive Smuggling Operation Uncovered: 1,115 Tonnes of Pakistani Goods Seized in India

Significant Seizure of Smuggled Goods

New Delhi: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully intercepted 39 containers containing 1,115 metric tonnes of goods originating from Pakistan, with an estimated value of nearly Rs 9 crore. These items were being unlawfully imported into India via maritime routes through Dubai, as reported by officials on Thursday.

The seizures occurred at Nhava Sheva port in two distinct operations.

The shipments were falsely labeled as originating from the UAE, concealing their true Pakistani roots.

However, investigations confirmed that these goods were indeed sourced from Pakistan and were only transshipped through Dubai before reaching India.

In response to this illegal activity, the DRI initiated 'Operation Deep Manifest', focusing on the illicit importation of goods from Pakistan that are routed through third-party countries, particularly Dubai.

An individual linked to one of the importing companies was apprehended on Thursday, according to an official announcement.

Following the terror attacks in Pahalgam, the Indian government enforced a strict ban on May 2, 2025, prohibiting any direct or indirect imports or transit of goods from Pakistan.

Despite this stringent prohibition, some importers have attempted to circumvent the regulations by misrepresenting the origin of their goods and manipulating shipping documentation.

Investigations revealed that the goods were first transported from Pakistan to Dubai using one set of containers and vessels, then transferred to another set destined for India.

Further scrutiny of the goods and the documents collected during the investigation uncovered a trail of cargo movement from Karachi port in Pakistan, with transshipments occurring at Jabel Ali port in Dubai before arriving at Indian ports.

Additionally, financial transactions involving Pakistani entities were traced, raising significant concerns regarding illicit financial activities.

The entire operation was executed through a complex network of transactions involving nationals from Pakistan and the UAE, aimed at disguising the true origin of the goods as Pakistan.

In light of 'Operation Sindoor' and the current heightened security situation, the DRI has intensified its monitoring efforts through enhanced intelligence gathering and data analysis to target consignments originating from Pakistan.

This proactive approach has led to substantial seizures, as stated by officials.