Man held with foreign currency worth Rs 1.22 cr

A man has been arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle out foreign currency worth Rs 1.22 crore at the international airport here.

On Wednesday, while keeping surveillance on the passengers traveling to Dubai, one passenger was intercepted after he crossed the immigration counters.

According to custom officials, on examination of his checked in baggage, it was found to contain besides his personal belongings, three books - two with the title 'GATE Tutor 2014' and one book titled 'MAHAAN INDRAJAL'. The books had special cavities carved in between the pages.

Total of six bundles each containing 10000 USD was found to have been concealed in the cavities in each book.

A total of 18 bundles were recovered from the three books. Two more bundles, each containing 10000 USD were also recovered from the pocket of a jeans trouser which was placed along with the books.

A total of 200000 USD equivalent to INR 1,22,70,000/- were recovered and seized under Section 113 of the Customs Act 1962 read with provisions of Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999.

The books and the concealing material were also seized as the same was liable for confiscation under Section 118 and 119 of the Customs Act 1962 and the Pax was arrested under Section 104 of the Act ibid, said Neeta Lall Bhutalia , Commissioner of Customs (I and G) .

Further investigations are in progress.