Afghanistan's Consul General Caught Smuggling 25kg Gold in Mumbai

In a shocking incident at Mumbai airport, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) caught Zakia Wardak, the Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, allegedly attempting to smuggle 25 kilograms of gold worth ₹18.6 crore from Dubai to India on April 25, 2024. The high-ranking diplomat arrived on an Emirates flight around 5:45 pm with her son, using the green channel to indicate they had no luggage to declare.

Why this matters: This incident raises concerns about the integrity of foreign officials in India and the potential misuse of diplomatic privileges. It also highlights the need for stricter monitoring of diplomatic luggage and more effective security checks at airports to prevent smuggling.

DRI officials initially cleared Wardak's luggage but later stopped her to inquire if she was carrying any dutiable goods or gold. Despite denying possession of any gold, a physical pat-down by a woman officer revealed gold bars concealed in her jacket, leggings, knee caps, and waist belt. The gold was seized under a 'panchnama,' and a case of gold smuggling was registered against Wardak under the Customs Act, 1962.

Speaking to the Times of India, Wardak expressed her surprise and concern over the accusations, stating,"I am surprised and concerned by the gold smuggling accusations. "However, due to her diplomatic immunity as the Consul General of Afghanistan, Wardak was not arrested despite the serious allegations against her. Her son was also searched but was found to be not carrying any contraband.

The DRI officials had received specific information about Wardak's alleged smuggling attempt before deploying personnel at the airport. The incident has raised questions about the security checks at airports and the ease with which contraband can be smuggled into the country, even by high-ranking diplomats. It has also sparked concerns about the potential misuse of diplomatic privileges and the need for stricter monitoring of diplomatic luggage.

The shocking incident involving Afghanistan's Consul General Zakia Wardak and the seizure of 25 kilograms of smuggled gold worth ₹18.6 crore has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles and raised serious questions about the integrity of foreign officials in India. As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against smuggling and the need for vigilance at all levels, including among those entrusted with diplomatic responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

• Afghan Consul General Zakia Wardak caught smuggling 25kg gold at Mumbai airport.
• Gold worth ₹18.6 crore was concealed in her clothing, including jacket and leggings.
• Wardak used diplomatic immunity to avoid arrest despite serious allegations.
• Incident raises concerns about airport security and misuse of diplomatic privileges.
• DRI officials had received prior information about Wardak's alleged smuggling attempt.