Chinese firecrackers worth around Rs 35 crore seized in multiple operations; 12 arrested as authorities uncover sophisticated smuggling network involving cargo concealment and container manipulation.
Highlights:
- DRI seized around 46,000 Chinese firecrackers hidden inside two containers.
- Containers were falsely declared as carrying trolley bags and sprayers.
- Chennai Customs uncovered an 18.7 MT firecracker smuggling racket involving CFS staff.
- Since May 2026, authorities have seized over 100 MT of Chinese firecrackers.
- Total seizures are valued at around Rs 35 crore, with 12 arrests made.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has cracked down on a major smuggling network involved in the illegal import of Chinese firecrackers, seizing consignments worth around Rs 35 crore and arresting 12 people in a series of operations across Mumbai and Chennai.
In one of the latest operations, DRI officers intercepted two 40-foot containers that had arrived from China. The cargo had been falsely declared as carrying trolley bags and agricultural sprayers. However, a detailed inspection revealed nearly 46,000 pieces of Chinese firecrackers and fireworks carefully concealed behind legitimate goods in an attempt to evade customs checks.
In a separate intelligence-led investigation, Chennai Customs exposed a sophisticated smuggling racket involving the illegal removal of 18.7 metric tonnes of Chinese-origin firecrackers from a Container Freight Station (CFS). Officials found that the container was taken out of the facility without Customs approval, the firecrackers were secretly unloaded, and the container was later returned after being filled with different cargo to avoid detection.
Investigators said the operation was carried out with the help of a CFS employee. Two people, including the staff member, have been arrested in the Chennai case.
The DRI also highlighted that since May 2026, it has conducted several successful operations in Mumbai, leading to the seizure of more than 100 metric tonnes of Chinese firecrackers. During one investigation, officials found that several CFS employees had actively assisted smugglers by facilitating cargo substitution. Ten people, including four CFS employees and an Exports Manager, were arrested in that case.
The import of firecrackers into India is classified as “Restricted” under the Foreign Trade Policy. Importers must obtain licences from both the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). Authorities warned that illegally imported firecrackers pose serious threats to public safety, national security, port operations and the country’s logistics network.
Officials said the investigations are continuing to identify the wider network behind the smuggling operations and prevent similar attempts in the future.
