J. CHELAMESWAR, J, J.

( 1 ) THESE two writ petitions are filed challenging the orders of preventive detention issued by the specially Empowered Officer, who happens to be the Secretary (Political) to the government of Andhra Pradesh, under section 3 of the Conservation of Foreign exchange and Prevention of Smuggling activities Act, 1974 (for short "cofeposa act" ). By two separate orders dated 31. 10. 2003, the two petitioners in these two writ petitions were directed to be detained under the provisions of COFEPOSA Act.

( 2 ) FACTS in brief which occasioned the passing of the orders are: One Mohd. Aziz, who has an Indian Passport, issued at Riyadh, who was holding a ticket to united Arab Emirates with a Boarding Pass bearing No. 241 on which a seat 39a was earmarked to the passport holder, was intercepted when he approached the customs departure counter for customs clearance by the customs authorities (Air Intelligence Unit, Hyderabad Airport ). On a search from the baggage of the said mr. Aziz, the authorities found assorted foreign currencies, equivalent to Rs. 1,21,06,5 60. 00. Thereafter, the said Mr Aziz was dechecked on a suspicion that he was smuggling the foreign currency ou

Click Here to Read the rest of this document