DRI, Gujarat ATS uncover 88 kg of smuggled gold, luxury watches, and cash in Ahmedabad raid

In a major breakthrough against smuggling, the agencies have unearthed a massive stash of 88 kg gold bars, 19.66 kg studded gold jewellery and ₹1.37 crore cash at Ahmedabad. The operation was done jointly by the department of revenue intelligence with Gujarat ATS on March 17.

In a significant breakthrough against smuggling operations, the officers of DRI conducted a search at a residential flat in Paldi, Ahmedabad on March 17, 2025, along with the officers of Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) based on inputs received from the Gujarat ATS, said the ministry of finance.

“The search led to the recovery of 87.92 kilograms of gold bars, valued at around ₹80 crores. Majority of the said gold bars bear foreign markings, indicating that these were smuggled into India,” the ministry added.

The stash unearthed also includes eleven luxury watches, including a Patek Philippe watch studded with diamonds, a Jacob & Co timepiece, and a Franck Muller watch and jewellery weighing 19.66 kilograms, studded with diamonds and other precious/semi-precious stones.

“The valuation of the said jewellery and luxury watches is in progress. In addition, cash amounting to ₹1.37 crores was also recovered from the said residential premises,” said the ministry.

“The search represents a major blow to illicit activities and underscores DRI's commitment to combating economic offences and safeguarding the integrity and sovereignty of nation. Further investigations are currently underway,” said the ministry.