UK: Indian Couple Convicted, Exported Cocaine Worth 57 Million Pounds

An Indian-origin couple residing in the UK has been convicted for their involvement in a cocaine smuggling operation worth £57 million. Arti Dhir, 59, and Kavaljitsinh Raijada, 35, faced charges of exporting 512 kilograms of cocaine from the UK to Australia in May 2021.

 NCA Links Duo to Drug-Sending Enterprise

The couple, whose extradition was sought by India, also faces accusations from Britain’s National Crime Agency (NCA) regarding their alleged operation of a front company named Viefly Freight Services. This company was purportedly responsible for sending the drugs via a commercial flight under the guise of six metal toolboxes.

Following a trial at Southwark Crown Court, Dhir and Raijada were found guilty on 12 counts of exportation and 18 counts of money laundering. The jury's verdict has set the stage for their sentencing, scheduled at the same court on Tuesday.

Australian Border Force Alerts UK Officials

The unraveling of this illicit operation began when the Australian Border Force notified UK officials about the smuggled consignment. Subsequent investigations traced the shipment back to Dhir and Raijada, leading to their arrest and legal proceedings.

The NCA revealed that Dhir and Raijada had established Viefly Freight Services as a front for their drug-smuggling activities. Both individuals had served as directors of the company since its incorporation in June 2015, playing a pivotal role in the operation.

Investigators speculate that the couple's knowledge of airport freight operations may stem from their employment at a flight services company at Heathrow. Dhir and Raijada had worked at the same company during different periods, potentially leveraging their experience to orchestrate the smuggling operation.

 Concealed Cash and Extensive Deposits

Upon their initial arrest in June 2021, law enforcement officers seized valuable assets, including £5,000 worth of gold-plated silver bars and £13,000 in cash from the couple's home. Further discoveries during a subsequent arrest in February 2023 unveiled almost £3 million in cash hidden in boxes and suitcases at a storage unit in Hanwell.

Previous Accusations 

The couple faced prior accusations of orchestrating the murder of their 11-year-old adopted son, Gopal Sejani, in 2017 for an insurance payout. The tragic tale began when they traveled to Gujarat in 2015 to adopt Gopal, promising him a better life in London.

The convictions of Arti Dhir and Kavaljitsinh Raijada shed light on the intricate web of international drug smuggling, while their dark past adds a chilling dimension to their criminal history. The impending sentencing will determine the legal consequences of this illicit operation.