The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has confiscated 18.1 kg of ambergris along the Tuticorin Coast, which is estimated to be worth 31.67 crore (approximately) on the black market from the rackets who tried to smuggle it.
According to sources, a group was trying to smuggle ambergris out of India across the water close to the Harbour Beach, Tuticorin, Sri Lanka coast on May 18, 2023 at night. However, the plan failed as the DRI officers stopped a car carrying five people and found 18.1 kg of ambergris in the front passenger seat. The passengers admitted to trying to smuggle something.
Ambergris is a product of sperm whales, which is a protected species listed under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. As a result, both Ambergris and the vehicle used to transport the forbidden commodity were taken into custody. Due to its scarcity, the demand is very high, as is its price. It is also known as amber grease or grey amber.
Additionally, over the past two years, the DRI has intercepted attempts to smuggle 40.52 kg of ambergris out of India along the Tuticorin Coast, with a market value of Rs. 54 crore.
Four people from Tamil Nadu and Kerala who were actively involved in this Ambergris smuggling effort were detained and placed in judicial custody. Additionally, the people who were in the seized cars acknowledged that they were involved in the smuggling of Ambergris.
Ambergris is a natural phenomenon and it is highly valued by the perfume makers. It is also used in food and drink too. The countries which banned ambergris from export and import for commercial purposes are Australia, United States of America and India. However it is legal in countries like France, United Kingdom, Switzerland and Maldives.
Recently, the DRI, in two separate operations conducted this week, seized 23.34 kg smuggled foreign gold valued at Rs. 14.43 crore through Chennai International Airport and foiled an attempt to smuggle foreign gold into the country.
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