DRI Seizes Chinese-Origin Fireworks of Rs.12 Cr at Chennai Port

Specific intelligence developed by the Hyderabad Zonal Unit of Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has indicated that Chinese-origin firecrackers were being illegally imported in containers through Chennai port by misdeclaring them as stationery items, medical gloves, plastic clips, hair bands, storage wardrobes, shoe racks and other goods. Officers of the DRI examined suspected containers in separate coordinated operations. 

Searches and examinations resulted in the recovery of large quantities of Chinese-origin pyrotechnic fireworks concealed behind cartons containing the declared cover cargo. The seized fireworks were collectively



valued at approximately Rs.12 crore.

Import of firecrackers and fireworks is restricted under Foreign Trade Policy and requires valid authorisations from Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) under the Explosives Rules- 2008.

As fireworks had been imported without the requisite licences and through misdeclaration and concealment, they were seized under the provisions of the Customs Act-1962. The DRI has been actively combating the smuggling of various restricted and prohibited goods across the country through intelligence-driven and coordinated enforcement operations.