: In what could prove to be a big boost for the ongoing probe into serial smuggling of gold through the Cochin International Airport Limited allegedly by a Muvattupuzha-based syndicate, detention order invoking the provisions of the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (Cofeposa) has been issued against nine accused, including a police officer.
Apart from the alleged kingpin of the syndicate P.A. Naushad of Muvattupuzha, detention order has also been issued against civil police officer Jabin K. Basheer, Salim, Shinoy, Bibin Scaria, Fazil, Faizal, Yazir and Saifudheen.
All the accused allegedly had a role in the serial smuggling through the airport in less than two years evading customs duty for about 3,000 kilogram of gold.
ADVERTISEMENT
Jabin, who was on deputation with the Immigration wing of CIAL for about two years, alone is believed to have smuggled in 1,500 kg of gold through the airport.
Naushad, Jabin, Salim, Shinoy and Bibin who were arrested walked out on bail earlier.
With the invocation of Cofeposa, they could be detained without bail for another year and are likely to be lodged at the Poojappura central prison in Thiruvananthapuram. The remaining four accused are still at large against whom look-out circulars have been issued. Customs has so far arrested 35 people in the case including Jabin's father and brother.
ADVERTISEMENT
According to investigators, the syndicated helmed by Naushad sought help from Jabin and others in smuggling gold through CIAL.
The syndicate also managed to source help from the ground handling staff in executing their designs.