The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) seized 108 gold bars weighing 108.060 kgs near the Indo-China border on July 9. Two individuals, Tenzin Targy (40) and Tsering Chamba (69), were arrested in connection with the incident.

According to the press statement, on July 9, 2024, at around 01:30/02:00 PM, the 21st Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) launched a Long Range Patrolling (LRP) in the border areas of the Southern Sub Sector in Eastern Ladakh, specifically in the general areas of Chismule, Narbula Top, Zakle, and Zakla. This patrol was aimed at checking infiltration and smuggling activities, which tend to increase during the summer season. There were also specific inputs about smuggling activities in the area near Sirigaple, Ladakh.

The patrol team, headed by Deepak Bhatt, DC/GD, comprised three SOs and 17 ORs. While reaching the area of Sirigaple, approximately 1 km away from the International Border at around 1:20 PM, the party encountered two suspicious individuals with mules. The patrol party chased them down and took them to the suspects' camping area. Initially, the suspects claimed they were collecting medicinal plants, but the patrol party later discovered a large quantity of gold and other items.

The patrol party took custody of both suspects and seized the items, then proceeded to Tactical HQRS Koyul to report the matter to Ajay Nirmalkar, Comdt 21 Battalion, ITBP, via satellite phone. He directed them to ensure the secure custody of the precious metal and suspects. The matter was reported to higher headquarters, and further investigation and action are ongoing in coordination with other organizations.

This patrol was planned by SHQ Srinagar, ITBP, with the approval of HQ NW Ftr, ITBP, along with several other patrols launched simultaneously in the general area.

In addition to the gold bars, the following items were seized:

• 2 mobile phones
• 1 binocular
• Some Chinese food items
• 2 knives
• 2 ponies
• 1 torch
• 1 hammer
• 1 nose plier

The ITBP is authorized by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India (GOI), to carry out search and seizures, and exercise the powers of Customs on the border to combat smuggling activities. The suspects will undergo joint interrogation by Civil Police, IB, SB, Customs, and ITBP. The seized items and the suspects have been handed over to Customs officers for further questioning and necessary legal action.