Operation Numkhor: Customs and ED launch joint probe into SUV smuggling from Bhutan

Kochi: In the case of illegal SUVs smuggled into Kerala from Bhutan under ‘Operation Numkhor’, a joint investigation by Customs Preventive and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is underway. Three more SUVs, including that of a social media influencer, were seized by Customs the other day. An ED team led by Kochi Deputy Director S Simy visited the Customs Preventive Office to collect information.

Although 36 vehicles were seized on Tuesday, none of the owners appeared to submit documents. Summons are being prepared to call celebrities and others for questioning. SUVs belonging to actors Dulquer Salmaan and Amit Chakkalakkal were among those seized. A raid was also conducted at actor Prithviraj’s residence, but no vehicles were seized.

Large-scale money laundering involving Bhutan

Customs investigations have revealed that between 150 and 200 vehicles were smuggled from Bhutan, with 90% of their documentation found to be forged. This discovery led to the raids. The gang is reportedly based in Coimbatore. It has also been found that they sent Indian currency to Bhutan, either by transfer or hand delivery. The ED has confirmed that a preliminary investigation has begun.

Influencer’s cruiser seized

Following the seizure of three additional SUVs on Wednesday, the total number of vehicles seized has reached 39. Among them is a Land Cruiser belonging to a social media influencer from Thiruvananthapuram, seized at Adimali. The vehicle was purchased for ₹15 lakh from a person in Malappuram’s Tirur. The Kerala owner of a Land Cruiser confiscated from a garage in Kundannoor has not been identified.

Actor denies ownership, Customs raise suspicions

Actor Amit Chakkalakkal has denied ownership of several seized vehicles, stating they were brought to his workshop under the guise of a close relationship for repair work. However, Customs have raised doubts about Amit’s transactions. Despite questioning, he has failed to provide a clear explanation for why vehicles not owned by him were running on the road for months.