India, Aug. 18 -- The Dapoli customs division seized a little over 4kg of ambergris worth over Rs.5 crore from Goa fort near Harnai beach at Ratnagiri's Dapoli village on August 12. Ambergris, also known as 'whale vomit' is a solid, waxy substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales, highly valued in the perfume industry as a fragrance enhancer. Ambergris trade is prohibited since the material is classified as a schedule I animal article under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, making this a rare and high value seizure by the Dapoli customs division.

Following a tip off, officers of the customs department rushed to the Goa fort near Harnai beach where they found a viscous jelly like substance suspected to be ambergris. The mater...