Indian flight attendant caught smuggling gold bars in rectum, uncovering large-scale smuggling network

Amid increased regulatory scrutiny on cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin due to money laundering activities, there are still instances of "traditional methods" of money laundering occurring in the international community.

An air hostess from an Indian airline was arrested for alleged gold smuggling, raising concerns about airline employees engaging in illicit activities. Investigations indicate that the air hostess may have been involved in such activities multiple times, and authorities are intensifying efforts to uncover the smuggling network behind her.

Cabin Crew Arrested at Kannur Airport

Officials from the Revenue Department of India intercepted a cabin crew member from Air India Express at Kannur Airport, who was accused of engaging in gold smuggling activities on Tuesday. Specific information revealed that the crew member was on flight IX 714 from Muscat to Kannur.

Stashing Gold Inside Flight Attendant's Body

Upon searching the cabin crew member, it was found that she had concealed 960 grams of gold inside her body. The 26-year-old woman, identified as Surabhi Khatun from Kolkata, was then taken to judicial authorities for questioning and has been remanded in judicial custody.

Multiple Instances of Smuggling Participation

According to sources from the DRI, investigations suggest that Surabhi may have been involved in multiple instances of gold smuggling. Authorities are working to identify accomplices and expose the related smuggling network.

The DRI is also investigating whether more cabin crew members are involved in smuggling activities. Following Surabhi's arrest, DRI officials have interrogated additional cabin crew members to determine if they have connections to the smuggling group based in Kerala. The DRI stated that gold smuggling has infiltrated multiple flights and routes, and efforts will be intensified to combat such illicit activities.