Kochi (Kerala): The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has foiled an attempt to smuggle 512 kg of red sanders from the International Container Transhipment Terminal in Kochi, officials said on Saturday.

Acting on specific intelligence, officers from the DRI’s Cochin Zonal Unit intercepted a container bound for China. The shipment had been declared as rubber core veneer, but a detailed inspection revealed 16 concealed logs of red sanders hidden between veneer layers.

Red sanders smuggling attempt foiled

The seized consignment, weighing 512 kg, has been confiscated under provisions of the Customs Act, and further investigation is currently underway to identify those involved in the illegal export of wildlife products.

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Red sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus), a highly valuable and protected timber species, is listed under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act. Its export is strictly prohibited under India’s Foreign Trade Policy, making such smuggling attempts a serious offence.

Rising crackdown on smuggling in Kerala

The DRI said that during the current financial year, its Cochin Zonal Unit has intensified action against smuggling and contraband trade in Kerala.

Seizures have included:

  • Narcotic drugs
  • Gold smuggling consignments
  • Wildlife products
  • Foreign-origin and counterfeit cigarettes

These seizures are collectively valued at around ₹80 crore, highlighting the scale of illegal trade and customs violations in the region.

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Focus on wildlife protection and trade enforcement

Authorities reiterated that strict enforcement measures are in place to curb red sanders smuggling, which is driven by high demand in international markets. The latest seizure underscores the government’s continued efforts to strengthen port surveillance, customs enforcement, and wildlife protection laws.

PTI