Dulquer Salmaan, popular hero producer, son of superstar Mammootty, has approached the Kerala High Court seeking the release of his luxury vehicles seized by the Customs Department during 'Operation Numkhor'. The actor claims that the seizure was unlawful and demands the return of his vehicles. According to the petition, Customs authorities took into custody one of the four vehicles owned by Dulquer, which includes two Land Rovers and two Nissan models.
Dulquer argues that he has produced all necessary records to prove his ownership, including payment receipts, and therefore, there's no justification for the continued detention of the vehicle. He emphasizes that he purchased the cars by paying cash in accordance with the law and has all supporting documents for verification. Despite submitting complete documentation, Dulquer alleges that Customs officials ignored the records relating to the seized car and issued a seizure memo without proper inquiry.
Operation Numkhor and Its Implications
The Customs Department launched 'Operation Numkhor' to crack down on luxury car smuggling in Kerala, identifying 36 vehicles and tracing over 150 untraced vehicles. The operation aims to curb tax evasion and money laundering in the high-end vehicle market. Dulquer's case has drawn attention to high profile celebrity ownership of luxury vehicles and the scrutiny they face from enforcement agencies.
The Kerala High Court has directed Customs to file its reply to the petition and posted the matter for further hearing on September 30. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent in disputes involving the seizure of high value personal property by enforcement agencies.