Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 7 (ANI): Officers of the Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai Customs Zone III, have arrested three individuals employed by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) for impersonating Customs AIU officers, the Customs department said in a press release.
The preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects stopped passengers in the departure area after Customs checks in the arrival hall, examined their baggage, and extorted valuables and money from them under the pretense of official authority.
According to the Customs statement, “Their actions constitute a serious breach of trust and violate laws related to impersonation, harassment, and extortion, as they demanded or obtained valuables or benefits from passengers under the guise of customs official authority.” A detailed investigation is underway to identify and apprehend others involved in the network.
In a post on X, Mumbai Customs-III confirmed the arrests, stating: “Customs AIU officers at CSMIA, Mumbai Customs Zone III apprehended three individuals working for MIAL, impersonating as Customs AIU officers. They had allegedly stopped passengers in the departure and arrival hall area, examined their baggage, and demanded valuables from them unauthorisedly, amounting to extortion. Further investigation is ongoing, and necessary action will be taken as per the law.”
The incident highlights the need for vigilance against fraudulent activities in sensitive areas such as airports, where passenger trust and security are paramount.
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