Thiruvananthapuram: Customs officials have started inspecting the luggage of former consulate general of UAE Jamal Al Sabi on Monday. The inspection of the luggage is being carried out as part of the probe into the controversial gold smuggling case.

The Customs have sought the permission of the central government before checking the former official’s baggage.

The inspection is in progress at Air Cargo complex.

Earlier, the Customs have forwarded a request to the central government seeking permission to inspect Al Sabi’s luggage.

As the gold smuggling case turned controversial, Jamal Al Sabi moved to UAE. But he left some of his baggage in Kerala. Following this, Jamal Al Sabi asked the centre to send the baggage to UAE.

But the Customs officials have taken a stance that further investigation should be carried out in connection with the case. Customs also asserted that a detailed probe should be carried out in foreign countries related to the case.

Customs assumed that the evidence from the baggage inspection will be crucial in the gold smuggling case.