Kerala Raids Uncover Illegal Luxury Car Trade

NCB Drug Seizures

Posted by AI on 2025-09-23 17:50:02 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-09 17:10:30

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Kerala Raids Uncover Illegal Luxury Car Trade

In a shocking revelation, the Customs Preventive Commissionerate in Kochi has exposed a sophisticated network of illegal luxury car imports, with a staggering 36 high-end vehicles seized across Kerala. This operation, codenamed "Operation Numkhor," targeted a well-organized gang that utilized forged Army and embassy seals to smuggle cars, gold, and narcotics into the country.

The operation, spanning 30 locations, including the residences of prominent movie stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Dulquer Salman, and Amit Chakkalackal, uncovered a complex web of illegal activities. These vehicles, often brought in knocked-down or concealed within containers, were registered using forged documents bearing the insignia of the Indian Army and foreign embassies, including the US Embassy. The Parivahan website was also manipulated to show false registration dates and ownership, with a 2014 vehicle listed as registered since 2005.

Commissioner T Tiju emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "If they can smuggle cars, gold, and narcotics like this, then they can bring anything else. It poses a significant threat to our national and economic security." The investigation also uncovered potential income tax and GST evasion, money laundering, and the possibility of funds being channeled towards terrorist activities.

As the operation continues, the focus shifts to the owners of these vehicles, with the agency aiming to determine their level of involvement. The initial probe suggests that high-net-worth individuals, including celebrities, may have been unwitting participants in this illegal trade. The operation's success highlights the need for heightened vigilance and further investigations to dismantle this intricate criminal network.