Customs Air Intelligence wing today seized over 80 kg of red sanders logs from three Chinese nationals when they were attempting to board a flight to Malaysia from the airport here.
The red sanders, in small logs, totally weighing 89.64 kgs and valued at Rs 86,000 were kept in six bags, part of checked-in baggage.
It also shows the high demand for red sanders in China which normally uses it for the manufacturing of cosmetics, show pieces and medicines.
The three passengers are Sheng Welping (28), Zheng Kaihong (35), and Xiao Fuyao (38). It appears from their statements that they are only carriers operating for some benefits, a customs press release said.
This is the second time that red sanders has been seized from Chinese passengers at the Kochi airport.
The seizure was effected by a team of officers under the overall supervision and directions of S A S Navaz, Deputy Commissioner of Customs (AIU) and B Loknatha Reddy, Assistant Commissioner. Further investigation was in progress.
