Delhi Customs seize over 2000 grams of osmium powder, luxury watches
May 15, 2024
New Delhi [India], May 15 : Delhi Customs intercepted a significant haul of contraband, seizing more than 2000 grams of osmium powder and two luxury watches valued at Rs 72.3 lakh from two Indian nationals, who arrived from Hong Kong on Wednesday.
In a post on X, Delhi Customs said, "On the basis of profiling, Customs@IGI Airport have seized 2953 grams of Osmium Powder and 2 luxury watches valued at Rs 72.3lakhs from two Indian Nationals who arrived from HongKong."
The search operation done at the Indira Gandhi International Airport was part of routine profiling measures employed by the customs authorities. The suspects, whose identities have not been disclosed, were promptly apprehended under the Customs Act, of 1962.
The authorities have initiated further investigations into the matter to ascertain the origins and intended purpose of the seized items.
"Further investigation is underway," the tweet added.
Earlier, Delhi Customs' Patparganj Commissionerate seized 30,090 e-cigarettes worth Rs 2.40 crore, said the agency on May 3.
The E-Cigarettes were concealed in the garb of hair accessories. Import of e-cigarettes is prohibited under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (PMIETSDSA) Act, 2019.
The agency said that further investigation is in progress. E-cigarette simulates tobacco smoking and many studies found that among teens, using e-cigarettes may increase the risk of exposure to lead and uranium -- potentially harming brain and organ development in young people.
In September 2019, e-cigarettes were completely banned in India under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act.
E-cigarette aerosol is known to contain various potentially harmful compounds including metals which even at low levels, can lead to detrimental health impacts, affecting cardiovascular, renal, cognitive and psychiatric functions.
