Three Chinese nationals detained at BIA over Rs. 514,000 electronics smuggling attempt

By T.K.G. Kapila

Colombo, May 20 (Daily Mirror) - Airport customs officers at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) arrested three Chinese nationals on the night of 19 May after they allegedly attempted to smuggle mobile phones and batteries valued at Rs. 514,000 into Sri Lanka using the “Green Channel” meant for non-declarable goods.

The suspects, a 34-year-old Chinese woman and two 35-year-old Chinese men, arrived in the country on China Eastern Airlines flight MU-6017 from Shanghai at 6.43 p.m. on 19 May.

According to customs officials, the operation unraveled when the first passenger entering the Green Channel aroused suspicion while carrying a black “tulip-type” polythene bag obtained from the airport duty-free shopping area. A detailed inspection revealed mobile phones concealed among toffees and chocolates, forming part of a larger consignment suspected to be intended for cybercrime-related activities.

Subsequent checks led officers to the remaining suspects, who were also found in possession of similar concealed electronic items.

Customs officials have launched further investigations into the attempted smuggling network and the intended use of the devices within the country.