iPhones are premium devices, and smuggling them is a common issue in India. In a recent incident, customs officials at Delhi Airport stopped a female passenger arriving from Hong Kong with 26 iPhone 16 Pro Max units hidden in her vanity bag, ANI reported. This event occurred on Tuesday and highlights ongoing concerns about the illegal import of high-value electronics.
Reports from the news agency indicate that the passenger attempted to hide the expensive phones by wrapping them in tissue paper. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, being one of Apple’s latest models, is very valuable, making it a target for smugglers. The sheer number of phones being carried without declaration raised suspicions among customs officers.
Upon inspection, officials found the phones packed inside the bag. Such tactics are increasingly used by individuals looking to smuggle high-demand products for resale without going through proper channels.
Customs regulations require travellers to declare any goods worth more than a certain amount and pay the necessary duties. Failing to do so can lead to confiscation of the items and potential legal consequences. The seized iPhones will be held for further investigation.
The iPhone 16 series, launched by Apple, is available in four variants-iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The standard iPhone 16 and its larger counterpart, the iPhone 16 Plus, focus on delivering an excellent camera experience and solid performance at more accessible price points, starting around Rs 79,900 and Rs 89,900, respectively. These models are perfect for everyday tasks, including photography, browsing, and gaming.
On the other hand, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are pricier models with more premium features. Priced at Rs 1,19,900 and Rs 1, 44,900, these variants come with enhanced camera systems, ProMotion displays with higher refresh rates, and powerful processors for demanding applications.