Surat: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized at least 16 parcels imported from Dubai at the Sachin Surat Special Economic Zone (SEZ) as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected irregularities. The parcels were reportedly brought into the SurSEZ with declarations stating they contained gems and jewellery products meant for further processing. Sources said the parcels are worth millions of dollars as per their declared value. However, the exact details will be declared by DRI after investigation.Officials have not disclosed the exact nature of the suspected racket, but preliminary findings indicate the case may be linked to unauthorised import practices. The seizure has triggered a wider probe, with investigators examining the role of firms and individuals connected to the consignments.Sources said some suspects from Mumbai and Surat have been rounded up for questioning.Previously, central agencies had uncovered similar scams involving gem and jewellery companies operating in the SurSEZ. Authorities are scrutinising import documents, company records and shipment details to determine the scale of the fraud.Earlier in 2023, DRI unearthed a racket of wrongful disclosure of diamond consignment in SurSEZ. Later in Dec 2023, the Enforcement Directorate conducted a search in a company at Surat SEZ.The investigations then unearthed a large-scale transnational money laundering syndicate that laundered about US$ 65 million in the diamond trade. Investigations revealed that low-value Lab Grown Diamonds (LGD) were being misdeclared as natural diamonds and overvalued more than 100 times, and were being imported from firms based in HK to SEZ in India.
