In a major crackdown on illegal vehicle imports, the Customs Preventive wing in Kochi, Kerala, launched "Operation Numkhor," conducting raids at multiple locations across the state. The operation, whose name translates to "vehicle" in Bhutanese, targeted individuals involved in smuggling luxury cars from Bhutan into India using fraudulent registrations to evade taxes.
The raids, which took place on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, spanned over 30 locations, including Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kuttippuram, and Thrissur. Among those whose residences were searched were prominent Malayalam actors Prithviraj Sukumaran and Dulquer Salmaan. While authorities have yet to confirm any specific illegalities found at their residences, the raids underscore the widespread nature of the investigation. Two vehicles belonging to Dulquer Salmaan were seized as part of the operation. Actor Amit Chakkalakkal was also under scrutiny, with authorities seizing vehicles from his residence as well.
The investigation revealed a sophisticated network involving a Coimbatore-based gang that smuggled high-end vehicles into India via the Indo-Bhutan border. Customs officials estimate that approximately 150 to 200 such vehicles are currently in use in Kerala alone. The modus operandi involved bringing vehicles into India in various ways, including in completely knocked-down condition, inside containers, or disguised as tourist vehicles. The gang then registered the vehicles under false ownership or addresses, often using forged documents bearing the names of the Indian Army, the Indian and American embassies, along with fake seals and insignias.
According to Customs Commissioner T. Tiju, the illegally imported vehicles lacked proper registration, fitness certificates, and insurance. Furthermore, authorities suspect GST manipulation and money laundering in connection with the racket, as financial transactions were often conducted illegally without a clear trail. The price of these vehicles ranged from ₹25 lakh to several crores.
The authorities are concerned about potential threats to national and economic security. Some of the seized vehicles were suspected of carrying gold and drugs. There is also concern that the proceeds from the illegal vehicle sales may have been used for terror financing.
The Customs Preventive Department is coordinating with various agencies, including the Motor Vehicles Department, Anti-Terror Squad, and the State Police, to conduct a thorough investigation. They also intend to share details of the violations with the Enforcement Directorate (ED), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and Goods and Services Tax (GST) authorities, paving the way for a multi-agency, nationwide investigation. Notices will be issued to individuals involved, including Dulquer Salmaan, requiring them to appear in person for questioning.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to search for and seize illegally imported vehicles. The focus is on identifying all individuals involved in the smuggling racket and taking necessary action against them. The crackdown highlights the government's commitment to combating tax evasion and illegal activities that undermine the country's economic and national security.
