DRI Seizes 70 Tonnes Of Firecrackers At Nhava Sheva Two Arrested
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 70 tonnes of illegally imported firecrackers valued at ₹14 crore at Nhava Sheva port.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 70 tonnes of illegally imported firecrackers at Nhava Sheva port, highlighting ongoing concerns about customs duty evasion and illicit trade. The operation, conducted on May 23, 2026, led to the apprehension of two individuals allegedly involved in the smuggling operation. The firecrackers, valued at ₹14 crore, were falsely declared as 'Polypropylene Granules'. Preliminary investigations suggest a deliberate attempt to evade applicable customs duties and restrictions on the import of such goods. The seized goods are now subject to further investigation, and the arrested individuals face potential charges under the Customs Act, 1962, including penalties and prosecution. Authorities are intensifying scrutiny at major ports to curb similar illicit activities, which not only cause revenue loss but also pose safety hazards due to the unregulated nature of these imports. Further investigation is underway to determine the source of the illegal firecrackers and the intended recipients.
Section 111 of the Customs Act, 1962, deals with the confiscation of goods improperly imported, and Section 135 outlines penalties for evasion of duty. Misdeclaration of goods to evade customs duty attracts penalties, including confiscation of goods and imposition of fines. Non-compliance can also lead to prosecution under Section 135.
The incident underscores the importance of robust internal controls and due diligence in import operations. CFOs should ensure that their supply chain and logistics teams are fully aware of customs regulations and compliance requirements. Tax professionals should advise clients to conduct regular audits of their import-export activities to mitigate potential risks.
This seizure highlights the persistent risk of customs duty evasion and the need for increased vigilance. Such incidents can lead to significant revenue losses for the government and create unfair competition for legitimate businesses.