#DRI #OperationFireTrail #Smuggling #Firecrackers #ChineseFireworks #NhavaSheva #MundraPort #KandlaSEZ #PublicSafety #EXIMTrade #NewsUpdate #IndiaTradeSecurity
New Delhi: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has busted a major smuggling racket involving Chinese firecrackers worth ₹35 crore. Acting under “Operation Fire Trail”, DRI officials seized around 100 metric tonnes of illegal firecrackers from seven containers at Nhava Sheva Port, Mundra Port, and Kandla SEZ.
According to officials, the firecrackers were illegally imported under false declarations, disguised as goods like mini decorative plants, artificial flowers, and plastic mats. The consignment was brought in under the name of a KASEZ-based unit and certain IEC holders.
Investigations revealed that the KASEZ unit intended to divert the consignment to the domestic market (DTA), bypassing legal procedures. One of the key individuals behind the operation—a partner in the SEZ unit—has been arrested and sent to judicial custody.
Import of firecrackers in India is restricted and regulated under the Foreign Trade Policy (ITC HS Classification). It requires clearances from DGFT and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). Chinese firecrackers are especially risky as they often contain banned chemicals like red lead, copper oxide, and lithium, which pose serious safety hazards.
Officials say that such materials are highly combustible and could lead to accidents, port fires, or supply chain disruptions. The timely interception by DRI has helped prevent potential safety risks and environmental hazards.
A DRI spokesperson said, “This successful operation reflects our commitment to safeguard the country’s infrastructure and public safety. We are actively working to dismantle illegal smuggling networks and protect the integrity of India’s EXIM trade system.”
The case is under further investigation.
Tags: #DRI #OperationFireTrail #Smuggling #Firecrackers #ChineseFireworks #NhavaSheva #MundraPort #KandlaSEZ #PublicSafety #EXIMTrade #NewsUpdate #IndiaTradeSecurity
