DRI seizes foreign currency worth ₹1.56 crore from two passengers at Hyderabad airport

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized foreign currency worth approximately ₹1.56 crore from two passengers at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad after intercepting them while they were preparing to fly to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Thursday (October 22, 2026).

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI Hyderabad Zonal Unit officers intercepted a male Indian passenger scheduled to travel to Kuala Lumpur on AirAsia flight AK-68. During a search of his cabin baggage, officials recovered $66,600, MYR 3,773 and SGD 2, collectively valued at approximately ₹63.62 lakh.

The currency was allegedly concealed inside a black plastic cover placed among clothes in his trolley bag. During preliminary questioning, the passenger reportedly disclosed that a female passenger was also travelling on the same flight, although under a different PNR.

DRI officers subsequently placed the woman under surveillance and intercepted her before departure. A search of her cabin baggage led to the recovery of $97,600, valued at approximately ₹91.94 lakh. The currency was similarly concealed inside a black plastic cover among clothes in her trolley bag.

According to the DRI, neither passenger could produce documents supporting the lawful procurement and carriage of the foreign currency.

The agency seized the entire foreign currency, comprising $1,64,200, MYR 3,773 and SGD 2, along with the trolley bags allegedly used for concealment. The total value of the seized currency was estimated at ₹1.56 crore.

Both passengers were arrested under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. Further investigation is underway.