Ornamental fish, memory cards seized at airport

Fish packed in plastic bags confiscated from a passenger

Officials of the Customs Air Intelligence Unit seized about 300 ornamental fish and 7,400 2 GB memory cards from a passenger who arrived here on an Air India Express flight from Singapore.

Passenger intercepted

Acting on specific prior information, the passenger, A.Khaazali of Devipattinam in Ramanathapuram district, was intercepted by officials at the airport this morning.

The fish, packed in small plastic bags filled with water and oxygen, were found in his baggage.

The fish, which some believe would bring prosperity, are valued at Rs.90, 000.

The fish were being imported without clearances.

Memory cards

The accused was also found to be carrying 2 GB memory cards and was charged with trying to evade duty on them, said D.Sivashankaran, Additional Commissioner of Customs, Tiruchi.

The chips were valued at Rs.14.80 lakh. Khaazali was arrested and sent for remand. Mr.Sivashankaran said steps were being taken to send back the fish to Singapore.

The operation was planned and supervised by Shanthi Sundaram, Chief Commissioner of Customs (Preventive), Chennai; Ajay Dixit, Commissioner, Commissioner of Customs, Mr. Sivashankaran and S. Hema, Deputy Commissioner of Customs.