The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized Chinese-origin fireworks valued at approximately Rs 12 crore at Chennai Port after detecting an alleged attempt to import the restricted goods through misdeclaration and concealment.
The action was carried out by the DRI’s Hyderabad Zonal Unit following specific intelligence. Officers examined several suspected containers during separate, coordinated operations at the port and found large quantities of fireworks concealed behind cartons containing other declared goods.
According to the DRI, the consignments had been declared as stationery items, medical gloves, plastic clips, hair bands, storage wardrobes, shoe racks and other commodities. The fireworks were allegedly placed behind the declared cargo to avoid detection during the import process.
The goods were seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. The operation has brought attention to the role of cargo examination and declaration checks in enforcing restrictions on the movement of hazardous and regulated goods through major ports.
The import of firecrackers and fireworks is restricted under India’s Foreign Trade Policy. Such imports require valid authorisations from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation under the Explosives Rules, 2008, the DRI said.
The agency said the consignments lacked the requisite licences and authorisations. It also alleged that the importers had attempted to circumvent regulatory controls through misdeclaration and concealment. The seizure therefore involves both the nature of the imported goods and the method allegedly used to move them through the port.
The DRI’s action comes within the regulatory framework governing the import, handling and movement of explosives and fireworks. These controls are intended to ensure that restricted goods enter the country only with the required permissions and safety clearances.
The agency has not disclosed the identities of the importers or specified further enforcement steps in the information released. The seized consignments remain subject to proceedings under the Customs Act and applicable rules governing fireworks and explosives.
