Kerala bizman caught smuggling luxury watch from Dubai; pays Rs 18 lakh duty at Pune airport

MUMBAI: A Kerala businessman caught at Pune International Airport for smuggling a Rs 50 lakh Rolex luxury watch from Dubai had to pay Rs 18 lakh on the spot to Customs officials before being relieved. Apart from duty fee, the amount included 61.5% penalty.

Based on specific intelligence, the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) of Customs had intercepted a passenger who arrived from Dubai at Pune International Airport on Wednesday morning. Officials said the businessman, who was accompanied by his son and daughter-in-law, walked through the green channel without declaring anything. The officials stopped him and questioned him regarding the Rolex watch he wore.

"Initially, he said it was his old watch, but as we had specific information, we got it checked with the valuer. With the help of the serial number, we found that it was a brand new 2024 series Rolex Sky-Dweller Oyster Perpetual Superlative Chronometer, officially certified, having a value of around 48.240 lakh," said an official. A further check of his baggage also revealed the invoice issued for the watch.

The businessman, who is into scrap business, eventually agreed to pay the duty of Rs 18.57 lakh. The watch was then handed over to him with an official Customs certificate, and he was later allowed to go.


Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.