Emraan Hashmi leads gripping drama about airport customs officers

Travelers often find airport security checks and baggage scanners to be a tiresome formality. However, a new web series forces viewers to reconsider the silent, high-stakes war waging behind those scanners. Starring Emraan Hashmi, Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web is a seven-episode thriller that premiered on January 14, 2026, offering a gritty look into the lives of Indian customs officials.

Set primarily within the bustling terminals of Mumbai International Airport, the narrative moves away from standard police chases to focus on the intricate world of contraband. The Taskaree web series review suggests that the show’s strength lies in its grounded approach. It portrays the relentless flow of gold, narcotics, and luxury goods that criminal syndicates attempt to push across borders daily.

Emraan Hashmi plays Superintendent Arjun Meena, a calm and observant officer. Unlike the loud, larger-than-life cops often seen in Bollywood, Meena is a restrained professional battling a massive international syndicate led by Bada Choudhary, played effectively by Sharad Kelkar. The series highlights that fighting crime isn't just about guns; it is about spotting suspicious couriers and navigating a system riddled with red tape and corruption.

Supporting cast members add significant depth to the story. Amruta Khanvilkar and Nandish Singh Sandhu play officers who must balance their dangerous duties with personal struggles, such as financial debts and family obligations. This human element is crucial, as the show explores the moral grey zones where honest officers are tempted to compromise their integrity for survival.

Visually, the series is sharp and sleek, capturing the sterile environment of international terminals and interrogation rooms without being overly flashy. While the pacing is generally steady, some viewers might find the finale slightly underwhelming compared to the tension built in earlier episodes.

Despite a softer ending, Taskaree succeeds by shining a light on a rarely explored profession. It is a solid recommendation for those tired of typical gangster dramas.