DRI Thwarts Massive Red Sanders Smuggling Operation

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 15 metric tons of red sanders valued at Rs 6.26 crore, thwarting an illegal export operation. The operation involved raids on multiple warehouses in Chennai and led to four arrests. Red sanders export is restricted under India's Foreign Trade Policy.

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully intercepted a significant smuggling operation, seizing 15 metric tons of red sanders valued at Rs 6.26 crore. The operation confirmed attempts to illegally export the contraband, the finance ministry reported on Sunday.

Raids conducted from December 9 to 11 across three premises in Chennai resulted in the confiscation of these environmentally protected goods. Four individuals, including the central operative along with his accomplices involved in the logistics of the crime, were apprehended.

Red sanders, scientifically known as Pterocarpus santalinus, are a banned item for export under the Foreign Trade Policy, aiming to curb illegal trading activities. Intelligence alerts had indicated that the red sanders were earmarked for export via Delhi, prompting the alert actions by DRI officers.

(With inputs from agencies.)