Ajas, a 32‑year‑old NRI from Kozhikode, landed at Nedumbassery Airport on Oct 24 at 3:30 a.m. and was stopped by Customs for carrying an unboxed iPhone from Dubai. Customs officials assessed a duty of Rs 25,000, citing the phone exceeded the personal‑use allowance of 10,000 ₹. Ajas refused, arguing the phone was for personal use and that the 20‑30 k range was illegal.
CISF officers intervened, escorted Ajas off the counter, and the passenger was handed over to the Nedumbassery Police. Police filed an FIR under Section 170 of the Kerala Police Act, citing obstruction of duty. The complaint was lodged by Customs officials.
Video of the confrontation went viral, sparking support among NRIs and frequent flyers. Many users reported similar charges on other flights, calling for clearer guidelines.
Customs has yet to release a statement on the assessment criteria, while officials hint at intelligence on bulk phone imports from the UAE. The case will be heard by the local court next week.