Sharjah: An Indian expatriate was arrested at Sharjah International Airport for attempting to smuggle gold moulded into the form of luggage handles.
The suspect was nabbed by customs officers at the airport on his way out of the country. The accused was heading to India, according to an official spokesperson from Sharjah Police.
He was arrested after failing to declare the gold to the airport authorities and inspectors at the cargo village at Sharjah Airport. When the bag was inspected, authorities realised that the suspect had removed the metal handle and replaced it with one made of gold .
The police alleged that the suspect was going to attempt to bypass the airport authorities and avoid paying custom duties on the gold when he reached India.
In the recent past, Sharjah Police has foiled a number of gold smuggling attempts by people using innovative methods in order to escape taxes.
Sharjah Police have warned residents and visitors not to take part in such activities that go against the laws of their countries.
They have also urged community members to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious behaviour or crimes on 999 or 06 5632222 or the toll-free number Najeed 800 151 or via SMS on 7999 or www.shjpolice.gov.ae/najeed
