Last Updated on June 28, 2026 12:07 am by BIZNAMA NEWS
AMN / NEWS DESK
In a major crackdown against the illicit import of hazardous contraband, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully foiled two separate attempts to smuggle Chinese-origin fireworks and firecrackers into India through the Chennai Port.
The operations are part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown that has so far resulted in the cumulative seizure of contraband valued at approximately ₹35 crore and the arrest of 12 individuals.
The Chennai Seizures: Concealment and Inside Jobs
The crackdown in Chennai exposed two distinct tactics used by smuggling syndicates:
- The Cover Cargo Strategy: DRI officers intercepted two 40-foot containers originating from China. While the consignment was officially mis-declared as “Trolley Bags” and “Sprayers,” a detailed examination revealed 46,000 pieces of firecrackers and fireworks ingeniously hidden behind the cover cargo.
- The Container Swap Plot: Working on a separate intelligence lead, Chennai Customs unearthed a sophisticated syndicate involving the clandestine removal of 18.7 metric tonnes (MT) of Chinese-origin firecrackers. Investigations revealed that the container was illicitly driven out of the Container Freight Station (CFS) without Customs authorization. The fireworks were offloaded at a different location, and the container was refilled with dummy cargo before being returned to the yard.
Inside Collusion: Authorities confirmed that the logistics heist was actively facilitated by an insider at the CFS. Two individuals, including the complicit CFS staff member, have been formally arrested.
A Pan-India Syndicate Targeted
The Chennai breakthrough follows a string of similar high-profile busts. Since May 2026, the DRI has executed a series of coordinated operations at Mumbai Port, leading to the cumulative seizure of over 100 MT of illegal Chinese firecrackers.
The Mumbai investigation also exposed a deep-seated insider network. Ten individuals—including four CFS employees, one of whom was the Exports Manager—were arrested for their involvement in facilitating the smuggling and attempting cargo substitution.
Public Safety and Legal Violations
The import of firecrackers into India is strictly ‘Restricted’ under the ITC (HS) Classification of the Foreign Trade Policy. Any legal import requires explicit and valid licenses from both:
- The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)
- The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) under the Explosives Rules, 2008
DRI officials emphasized that the illegal influx of such unregulated, hazardous goods poses severe risks not only to public safety and national security but also threatens port infrastructure and the integrity of the entire shipping and logistics ecosystem.
Further investigations are underway to trace the domestic distribution network and identify other kingpins involved in the trade.