The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) released a newsletter highlighting recent events, beginning with the observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31st, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and emphasizing national unity. In an organizational development, Shri Raguram K. of the National Customs Targeting Centre was elected as the Vice Chair of the WCO Global Information and Intelligence Strategy Working Group in Brussels, an achievement reflecting India’s recognized expertise in risk management systems. On the enforcement front, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) detected a case of mis-declared restricted items (VoIP devices) in a courier consignment originating from Thailand. Follow-up action led to the apprehension of the intended recipient, who was linked to foreign nationals of Chinese origin, and the recovery of 150 SIM cards and other equipment, resulting in the dismantling of an organized cyber-fraud network. Separately, Customs officials at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport intercepted a foreign passenger arriving from Bangkok and seized two endangered Silvery Gibbons concealed in a trolley bag, leading to the passenger’s arrest for international wildlife trafficking. The newsletter concluded by acknowledging the distinguished careers and retirement of Shri K.R. Uday Bhaskar and Shri Chandra Prakash Goyal.
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
03rd November, 2025
DO No. 44/News Letter/CH(IC)/2025
Dear Colleague,
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is observed every year on October 31 to honour the towering legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of India’s national and political integration. This year’s observance holds special significance as it marks the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India. His steadfast leadership in uniting more than 560 princely states into a single nation laid the foundation for our strong and cohesive Republic. The day serves as a reminder of his vision of unity in diversity and the continued importance of safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of our nation. The day underscores the importance of maintaining the sovereignty, peace and integrity of the nation, encouraging citizens to pledge their commitment to unity in diversity. Across the country, programmes such as the Run for Unity and Unity March rekindled the spirit of national cohesion, particularly among the youth and it is heartening to see that CBIC formations embraced this spirit with great enthusiasm.
In yet another proud moment, Shri Raguram K., Additional Director, National Customs Targeting Centre, DGARM, has been elected as the Vice Chair of the WCO Global Information and Intelligence Strategy (GIIS) Working Group during the elections held last month at the WCO Headquarters, Brussels. His nomination, proposed by Japan and supported by several countries across diverse regions, reflects the global recognition of India’s leadership and expertise in developing effective risk management systems that balance trade facilitation with targeted enforcement. This achievement highlights the growing stature of CBIC in advancing innovation and intelligence-led risk management on the international stage.
On the enforcement front, last week proved to be an action-packed one! In one of the cases, acting on specific intelligence, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence detected a case of mis-declaration in a courier consignment originating from Thailand and destined for Darbhanga, Bihar. Though declared as “Power Amplifiers,” the consignment was found to contain five multi-SIM VoIP devices, restricted items under the prevailing import regulations, which were seized. Swift follow-up action by DRI in Darbhanga led to the identification and apprehension of the intended recipient, who was found to be operating on behalf of foreign nationals of Chinese origin. Digital evidence recovered revealed that the devices were intended for use in cybercrime. The information was promptly shared with the relevant agencies resulting in coordinated searches at three premises and further recovery of 150 SIM cards, high-speed routers, audio-enabled cameras, inverters, Wi-Fi-controlled sockets, and Rs. 4 lakh in cash. The operation effectively pre-empted and dismantled an organised cyber-fraud network before it became operational, showcasing DRI’s alertness and inter-agency coordination in safeguarding national interests. Excellent team work!
In another case, customs officers at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport intercepted a foreign passenger arriving from Bangkok and recovered two Silvery Gibbons concealed in a trolley bag, one of which was found alive. The Silvery Gibbon, a small ape species endemic to the Indonesian island of Java, is classified as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Preliminary investigation revealed that the passenger, travelling from Malaysia to Thailand before arriving in India, was acting on behalf of an international wildlife trafficking syndicate. The passenger has been arrested. This action is an excellent example of the vigil maintained by the Customs officials and their commitment to wildlife conservation.
Before I conclude, heartiest congratulations to Shri K.R. Uday Bhaskar and Shri Chandra Prakash Goyal on the successful completion of their distinguished careers in the public service. Their exemplary leadership, professional excellence, and commitment to the service have been a source of inspiration to many across CBIC. As they conclude their illustrious journeys in public service, we extend our sincere gratitude for their invaluable contributions and wish them a joyous, healthy, and fulfilling post-retirement life filled with new experiences and cherished moments.
Till next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs.
