Kolkata: RPF on Sunday detained a resident of Uttar Pradesh in Howrah station for carrying Rs 2.6 crore worth of unaccounted for foreign currencies. Hemant Kumar Pandey (50), who was later handed over to the Customs for detailed questioning, claimed he was bringing these foreign currencies from Gorakhpur to Park Street in Kolkata.
According to sources, RPF personnel were monitoring the Patna-Howrah Jan Shatabdi Express, which reached Howrah station around 1:35 pm. The personnel noticed that a person was walking suspiciously, wearing a jacket and carrying a backpack. He was detained for questioning.
A search revealed that Pandey was carrying USD 2,89,000, Saudi Riyal 52,500 and Singapore Dollars 600 in his backpack. RPF said the total value of the recovered foreign currency in Indian rupees is estimated to be 2.6 crore.
An official said, "The detained individual identified himself as a resident of Bansgaon, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Upon questioning, he failed to provide any valid documentation or legal authorisation for carrying such a large amount of foreign currency. Initially, he attempted to mislead the officials but later admitted that he was transporting the cash from Gorakhpur to Park Street, Kolkata."
The RPF then reported the matter to Customs and GRP for further probe. RPF handed over Pandey to Customs officials, along with the seized cash.