Full Breakdown
DRI Intercepts Over 362 Tonnes of Pakistan-Origin Dry Dates in Nashik
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 14, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized more than 362 metric tonnes of dry dates that originated in Pakistan. The seizure took place at Container Freight Station (CFS) Ambad in Nashik after DRI officers intercepted 13 cargo containers imported by a Mumbai-based commercial entity. Import documents listed the United Arab Emirates as the country of origin, but investigations revealed the goods had been shipped from Karachi Port, Pakistan, trans-shipped at Jebel Ali, UAE, and then rerouted to India.
Background & Context
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Government of India imposed a complete prohibition on the direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, effective May 2, 2025 (DGFT Notification No. 06/2025-26). The ban aims to safeguard national security and prevent the flow of potentially hostile commodities. In response, the DRI launched “Operation Deep Manifest,” a targeted enforcement drive to identify and disrupt attempts to evade the prohibition through third-country routing and falsified documentation.
Data & Statistics
- Quantity seized: > 362 metric tonnes of dry dates.
- Containers intercepted: 13 containers at CFS Ambad, Nashik.
- Transit route: Karachi -> Jebel Ali (UAE) – trans-shipment – second vessel -> India.
- Import declaration: UAE listed as country of origin on clearance paperwork.
Official Statements & Responses
The ministry also noted that enforcement actions have been intensified following regulatory revisions by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in mid-2025.
Why It Matters
The interception underscores the challenges of enforcing the 2025 import prohibition, highlighting how illicit trade networks exploit trans-shipment hubs to mask provenance. By seizing the cargo, DRI aims to protect supply-chain integrity and reinforce India’s broader national-security objectives. Continued vigilance is expected as authorities monitor similar routing strategies that could undermine the ban.
