Two individuals from Sikkim were apprehended by a Border Intelligence Team (BIT) of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at the India-Nepal border for attempting to cross into Nepal with Rs 9.74 lakh in Indian currency. The cash, which had not been declared at the customs checkpost, was seized during a routine check at New Mechi Bridge, Panitanki.
The search of a Mahindra XUV300, with registration no SK01PB9465, revealed hidden Rs 500 notes in various parts of the vehicle. Jiwan Biswakarma, the driver, claimed ownership of Rs 5,24,000 for his mother-in-law’s treatment in Nepal. The other occupant, Rahul Nepal, stated that he possessed Rs 4,50,000 for his Nepal tour.
Both individuals, engaged in the business of buying and selling four-wheelers in Gangtok, failed to produce satisfactory documents supporting the lawful possession and transportation of the currency. Subsequently, the Rs 9.74 lakh was seized, verified as genuine, and handed over to the Customs Office in Panitanki for further investigation and action under relevant laws.
