New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS): Three Chinese nationals were held with Rs 1 crore red sandalwood just before they could fly out from the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday.

They have been identified as Li Xin, Cheng Zhen and Jian Jian Zhov.

On Monday midnight, the Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) surveillance and intelligence staff noticed suspicious activities of a foreign passenger in the check-in area of Terminal-3.

"He was diverted to random screening point in departure area for thorough checking of his trolley bags. During baggage screening, about 60 kg red sandalwood was detected in his two trolley bags," CISF said.

The passenger was identified as Li Xin, bound for Kunming by Shandong Airline.

On reviewing the CCTV footage, it came to light that two more passengers -- Cheng Zhen and Jian Jian Zhov -- were accompanying him and they had checked-in with their four trolley baggage.

They were located from boarding gate area and taken to the baggage make-up area for thorough checking. About 120 kg red sandalwood was detected from their baggage.

Later, the three passengers along with their luggage containing red sandalwood weighing about 180 kg were handed over to the Customs, the CISF said.