In a scandal straight out of a spy thriller, three unsuspecting students bound for Dubai have been caught red-handed with over $400,000 (Dh1.47 billion) stuffed into notebooks at Pune airport. The discovery unfolded on February 17, when customs officials intercepted the trio — who claim they had no idea what was in store for them.

The plot thickened when it emerged that the students had received two mysterious bags from Pune-based travel agent Khushbu Agarwal, 41. She allegedly passed off the bags, claiming they contained urgent office documents for her Dubai operation. But what the students didn’t know was that hidden between the pages were stacks of foreign currency which had been meticulously concealed in a bold smuggling attempt.

Acting on a tip-off amid an investigation into a suspected hawala racket, Pune Customs unearthed the shocking secret. Indian authorities, in collaboration with officials in Dubai, quickly sent the students back to India — only to have them intercepted at the airport, where the currency stash was discovered.

The ensuing inquiry led to the dramatic detention of Agarwal, who confessed to owning the seized money during the interrogation. 

Further questioning resulted in the arrest of Mumbai-based forex trader Mohammed Aamir, the alleged supplier of the illicit funds. A subsequent raid on a forex firm in Mumbai uncovered even more foreign currencies from various countries.

Customs and Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) officers have since raided 10 locations across Pune, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai, tightening the noose around those involved. Both Agarwal and Aamir have now been placed in judicial custody, as the authorities continue to unravel the currency smuggling case.

(Source: PTI, HT)

A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Dhaka to Dubai made an emergency landing at Nagpur’s Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in India after the pilot received a smoke alert from the aircraft’s hold. Officials later confirmed that no fire was found.

Flight BG 347, carrying 396 passengers and 12 crew members, was diverted to Nagpur on Thursday night as a precaution. The pilot, alerted by a fire alarm, immediately informed the Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) and the System Operations Command Centre (SOCC). A full emergency was declared, and the flight landed safely at 10.45 pm.

The aircraft was moved to an isolation bay, where all passengers and crew were safely evacuated. Fire safety teams from the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) and Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) were deployed as per protocol. A thorough inspection of the aircraft and its cargo hold was conducted, but no signs of fire or smoke were detected.

“We deployed a team of firefighters as soon as we received the alert. Following safety protocols, necessary precautions were taken, but no fire was reported,” said Bhimrao Chandankhede, Chief Fire Officer.

To minimise disruption, Biman Bangladesh Airlines arranged an alternative flight for the passengers, ensuring they could continue their journey to Dubai later that evening.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the smoke alert as part of standard safety procedures.

(Inputs from The Indian Express)

he much-awaited Legend 90 League, featuring cricketing stars such as Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and former New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor, generated excitement as Team Delhi Royals revealed their official jersey in a ceremony attended by former India legend and squad leader Shikhar Dhawan. The launch marks an important milestone for the franchise as they gear up for their campaign in this prestigious tournament.

Addressing the jersey launch as a significant step in Delhi Royals’ journey, Devender Kadyan, team owner of Delhi Royals shared, “Today marks a proud moment for Delhi Royals as we present our team jersey for the Legend 90 League to our fans. This jersey represents our values, aspirations, and commitment to cricket. We believe it will inspire our players to perform at their best and make our supporters proud

Former Indian Legend and Delhi Royals Leader Shikhar Dhawan shared his thoughts regarding leading squad in his new color, the legend shared, “As captain of Delhi Royals, I’m excited to wear this jersey and lead the team. Every stitch carries the legacy of the vibrant city Delhi is today, and we are all eager to make lasting memories as we step onto the field wearing these colors.”

Talking about not stopping to accept new challenges and adapt to newer formats, former Indian legend Shikhar Dhawan shared, “Every opportunity to keep playing for different formats keeps my passion alive. I’m excited to step into a fresh challenge and contribute to a team that brings together a unique blend of experience and energy. It’s all about continuing to evolve and enjoying the game.”

Adding support to Shikhar’s enthusiasm, team owner Devender Kadyan also shared, “The Delhi Royals are extremely proud to have Shikhar Dhawan as their captain. He is the ideal figurehead to lead our battalion because of his experienced commitment to the game and leadership. We want to leave our mark in the Legend 90 League and Shikhar’s ability to motivate and bring the team together will be crucial.”

Shivain Sharma, Director of Legend 90 League reflected on the valuable partnership they formed with Delhi Royals squad, he stated, “Our tournament is crafted to bring together the best of cricketing greats from around the world. Our shared dedication to excellence allows legends to reclaim their game and reconnect with the cricket community at large while fostering a healthy competition in an entertaining and innovative format.”

The jersey reveal ceremony, which showcased the Delhi Royal’s official playing kit, represents the team’s commitment to excellence and their strong connection to Delhi’s sporting legacy. The design incorporates elements that reflect both tradition and modernity, aligning with the spirit of Legend 90 League.