Smuggling in India Report 2022-23

GS Paper III Internal security

Context: The Chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) released ‘Smuggling in India Report 2022-23‘.

DRI celebrates 66th Founding Day

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the apex anti-smuggling agency of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), celebrated its 66th Foundation Day in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Four DRI officers get “Veerata Prashasti Patra” for their exemplary act of bravery for 2023.

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI):

DRI enforces the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962 and over fifty other allied Acts including the Arms Act, NDPS Act, COFEPOSA, Wildlife Act, Antiquities Act, etc.
DRI undertakes collection, collation, analysis and dissemination of intelligence relating to smuggling, carries out investigations, adjudication of cases and prosecution of the arrested persons.

It analyzes trends in Smuggling, Commercial Frauds and International Enforcement Operations & Cooperation.
Key findings:
- “Smuggling Menace in 2022-23: 522 smuggling cases were booked involving total seizure of Rs. 11,500 crore which includes seizures of 1,300 kg Heroin, 150 kg Cocaine, 250 kg Methamphetamine, 25 MT Ganja, and 1,450 kg Gold.
- Custom Duty Evasion Uncovered: Also, Rs. 4,500 crore of custom duty evasion was detected out of which such evaders have voluntarily paid Rs. 1,800 crore.
- Prosecution Initiatives (2022-23): Towards expeditious conclusion of investigations and timely launching of prosecutions, DRI launched a drive and concluded investigations in 944 cases and initiated prosecution in 375 cases in 22-23.

News Source: PIB