Customs seize red sanders from consignment at JNPT, 5 held

The consignment, declared as auto parts, was to be dispatched to Dubai. On examination, it was found to contain red sanders, the export of which is prohibited under the Customs Act, Commissioner of Customs P M Saleem said in a release today.

The contraband weighed 15.4 metric tonnes and a similar consignment, weighing 16 metric tonnes and valued at Rs 1.5 crore, was detected by the Customs on March 31 last.

Five people, including the kingpin of the gang, have been apprehended. Further investigation is in progress, the

The prohibited Red sanders is used for making musical instruments in the orient, furniture and showpieces, besides using its extract in China as an aphrodisiac. PTI SVS NP ESB