‘Illegally’ imported drone seized – The Hindu

The Haripad police in Alappuzha district on Tuesday seized an allegedly illegally imported Chinese drone following a tip-off from Customs (Preventive), Cochin. The seizure was carried out under provisions of the Customs Act amid allegations of unauthorised use of the drone. Customs officials had passed on specific information to the Haripad Station House Officer through the Superintendent of Police, Alappuzha.

Subsequent examination by Customs officers confirmed that the drone was an illegally imported Chinese-made model, classified as a prohibited item under the Customs Act, 1962. Its operation required prior clearance from the Director General of Civil Aviation. The drone, with a payload capacity of 50 kg, is valued at ₹20 lakh.

The Union government has banned the import, unauthorised possession, and usage of such drones, with violations punishable under the Customs Act, 1962. Further investigation is under way.