In a major breakthrough under its ongoing ‘Operation Fire Trail’, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) foiled a sophisticated smuggling attempt involving the illegal import of Chinese-origin fireworks and firecrackers into India. 

During this operation, DRI officers intercepted a 40-foot container at Navi Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva port, originating from China and destined for ICD Ankleshwar, which was declared as carrying “leggings”. A detailed inspection uncovered 46,640 concealed firecrackers/fireworks hidden behind a layer of garments. The consignment, valued at Rs 4.82 crore, was seized. 

Subsequent searches led to the recovery of incriminating documents outlining the smuggling syndicate`s modus operandi, and the arrest of a key person from Veraval, Gujarat.

The import of firecrackers is restricted under the ITC (HS) Classification of the Foreign Trade Policy and requires valid licences from both the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) under the Explosives Rules, 2008. 

The unlawful import of such hazardous goods poses grave risks to public safety, national security, port infrastructure, and the wider shipping chain. The DRI said it continues to investigate and dismantle organised smuggling networks involving hazardous goods.

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