Air India Express cabin crew arrested for smuggling gold while on duty

An Air India Express cabin crew member was arrested at Cochin International Airport (COK) on March 8, 2023 for allegedly smuggling gold.

The cabin crew member was caught by the Air Intelligence Unit of the Customs department at COK Airport after 1.487 grams of gold was recovered from him. The crew just came from a Bahrain-Kozhikode-Kochi flight.

The crew member wrapped the packets of gold around his forearms, which he attempted to conceal with the long sleeves of the airline’s uniform.

Air India Express confirmed the incident, and also said that it had suspended the crew member.

“A member of the crew on an Air India Express flight IX 474 has been taken into custody following an incident involving smuggling. The said individual has been placed on suspension with immediate effect,” Air India Express said in a statement seen by local news.

“Air India Express has zero tolerance for such behavior and will be taking stern action against the individual including termination of service following receipt of the report from the investigative authorities,” the statement added.

Police are currently investigating the case.