Customs detain 46 containers from Comoros-flagged vessel; one arrest made as probe finds ₹50 crore duty evasion.
Indian Customs officials have seized a consignment of Chinese walnuts allegedly misdeclared as Afghan-origin goods at Nhava Sheva Port, following a targeted intelligence-led operation.
The action began after routine scrutiny and risk assessment at Jawaharlal Nehru Port flagged discrepancies in a dry fruit shipment. Detailed examination revealed that walnuts declared as originating from Afghanistan were, in fact, sourced from China, raising suspicions of deliberate misdeclaration to evade applicable import duties and regulations.
Customs officials subsequently detained at least 46 containers from the Comoros-flagged vessel WIV Reyfa, which was carrying a total of 310 containers. The vessel claimed origin from Bandar Abbas Port and has been held at the port for over two and a half weeks.
The operation was triggered by “specific information” received by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on February 2, indicating large-scale misdeclaration of origin. A circular issued by the Customs Intelligence Unit on February 17 confirmed that one person has been arrested in connection with the case.
Investigators estimate duty evasion at approximately ₹50 crore. Authorities are examining bills of lading, certificates of origin and other shipping documents to determine the extent of falsification and identify all parties involved. So far, no importer has stepped forward to claim ownership of the detained consignments.
Samples of the walnuts have been sent for laboratory verification, while the containers remain under Customs custody pending further inquiry. Officials said that, if the charges are proven, the importer and associated entities could face confiscation of goods and substantial penalties under the Customs Act.
Customs authorities reiterated their commitment to tightening import controls through enhanced risk management systems and intelligence-based inspections, stressing that enforcement actions will continue to curb trade malpractice. Further developments are expected as the investigation progresses.
Source: Indiaseatrade news
