Why in news?
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) launched “Operation Fire Trail” to clamp down on illegal imports of Chinese firecrackers during the festival season.
Highlights
- Multi‑port seizures: Coordinated raids were carried out at major ports and special economic zones (SEZs) to intercept smuggled consignments of firecrackers disguised as other goods.
- Misuse of SEZ facilities: Investigations revealed that several traders misdeclared goods to circumvent customs duty and safety norms.
- Legal enforcement: The operation invoked provisions of the Explosives Act and Customs Act to confiscate stock, impose penalties and arrest offenders.
- Risk mitigation: By curbing illegal firecrackers, the DRI aims to prevent fire hazards, pollution spikes and revenue losses while promoting indigenous fireworks manufacturing.
