Over 5 Lakh Masks, 952 PPE Kits Being Smuggled To China Seized By Delhi Customs

New Delhi: The Delhi Customs on Wednesday intercepted a large number of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) kits, masks, raw material, and sanitisers which were being smuggled to China, media reports quoted officials as saying.

It may be recalled that the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), had on March 19, banned the export of all ventilators, surgical, disposable (2/3 Ply) masks, and textile raw material for masks and coveralls. Export of Alcohol-based sanitisers was also banned by DGFT on April 7.

Delhi Customs intercepted multiple shipments containing 5.08 lakh masks, 57 litres of sanitiser in 950 bottles and 952 PPE kits at the courier terminal, New Delhi on the basis of intelligence, Air Cargo, officials said.

The department has also seized 2,480 kg of raw material for masks, which was being smuggled to China.

“The goods were declared as packing materials for pouches and were being smuggled to China. These goods are prohibited for export as per the latest DGFT guidelines,” the officer said.