Customs officials at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai, have apprehended three private company employees for posing as customs officers and trying to extort money from an arriving passenger.
Passenger from Dubai Targeted
The incident unfolded when Abdul Baqi, who arrived from Dubai on flight 613-1456, was stopped by three men in the post-customs clearance area. The accused - Salman Idris Khan (30), Pramod Chhabban Kamble (28) and Darshit Mohan Raut (32) allegedly identified themselves as Customs officers, showing their airport entry passes as fake proof of identity.
They then pretended to inspect his luggage and demanded money under the guise of helping him "avoid higher customs duty."
Sensing something suspicious, the passenger immediately reported the incident to Customs Superintendent Satvir Gurjar, who, along with officer Yatendra Thakur, rushed to the scene and detained the trio.
Airport Employees with No Authority in Passenger Area
Upon interrogation, the accused admitted they were employees of private firms working at the airport but had no authorisation to enter passenger areas. Further investigation revealed that their actions were part of a planned extortion attempt, aided by an associate who provided them with passenger details.
Inside Help Uncovered
A fourth individual, identified as Pratik Mahadik (35), allegedly played a crucial role by supplying photographs and travel information of incoming passengers, helping the trio target individuals likely carrying valuables.
CCTV footage reviewed by customs officials confirmed that the accused had indeed intercepted the complainant and attempted to extort money.
Case Handed Over to Police
Following the confirmation of the incident, the suspects were handed over to Sahar Police Station for further investigation. The police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for impersonation, cheating, and extortion.
Officials have stated that the inquiry is ongoing to determine whether the accused were part of a larger racket operating within the airport premises.
Customs Department Strengthens Vigilance
A senior customs officer at CSMIA emphasized that strict surveillance measures are being enforced to prevent such security breaches. "Passengers are advised to verify official identity cards of customs officers, which clearly bear the government insignia, and immediately report any suspicious activity," the officer said.
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