Pune customs seizes 7 high-end drones worth ₹1.2 crore

The drones were illegally imported from Canada

The Pune customs seized seven drones worth Rs1.2 crore, which were imported in parts from Canada to be assembled in India.

The seven precision hawk, drones were of a USA-make. Photo for representation. (Reuters)

“We have seized seven precision hawk, USA-make drones, approximately valued at Rs1.2 crore . They were imported from Canada illegally by Amit Takte, who works at MS Webonise Private Limited at Bavdhan,” said K Shubhendra, deputy commissioner, Pune customs.

Customs said Takte vioilated provisions of the Customs Act,1962 as well as regulations under the Wireless, Planning and Telecommunications Wing.

“Without a Department of Telecom license, drones cannot be brought into India,” said Shubhendra.

Investigations revealed that Vikas Kumar of MS Heightsnext, Pune sold these drones to companies across India.

“The relation between the two companies [MS Webonise Private Limited and MS Heightsnext] is being investigated. Each drone is capable of completing the surveillance of large areas within a short span of time. We are investigating what the buyers meant to use the drones for,” said Shubhendra.

While no arrests have been made yet, customs is still investigating.