Costao: Everything you need to know about real-life hero Costao Fernandes; Goan custom officer played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui in Zee5 show

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui will play the role of Costao Fernandes, a brave customs officer from Goa, in the upcoming movie “Costao”. This film is based on the true events involving Fernandes’ struggle against a major gold smuggling operation in the 1990s. Sejal Shah serves as director for this project, which will first air on ZEE5, though the exact premiere date remains unspecified at present.

Who is Costao Fernandes? 

Born on April 26, 1942, in Cabinda, Angola, António Fwaminy da Costa Fernandes, more commonly known as Tony da Costa Fernandes, is a prominent Angolan political figure who has held diplomatic posts in Egypt, India, and the United Kingdom.

Known for his remarkable bravery and unwavering commitment to fighting smuggling operations, Fernandes began his career with the Goa Customs in 1979 as a Preventive Officer. Over time, he gained notoriety for his fearless confrontations with criminals and smugglers, frequently placing himself in dangerous situations.

Back in 1991, I found myself right in the thick of things, hot on the trail of a major gold smuggling scheme that had Alvernaz Alemao, the sibling of the renowned politician Churchill Alemao, deeply entangled. With sheer determination and an unyielding spirit, I managed to single-handedly bring this operation to a screeching halt!

Following the confrontation, Fernandes was hurt, while Alemao eventually died from his wounds. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, Fernandes managed to construct a case against the Alemao brothers, ultimately resulting in their incarceration under the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA).

For his unwavering commitment and valor, Fernandes was honored with the President’s Award in 1996. 

The movie is created by the team consisting of Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Bhavesh Mandalia, Sejal Shah, Shyam Sunder, and Faizuddin Siddiqui. Notably, Priya Bapat plays a significant character in it.

On April 11, 2025, a first glimpse was revealed, featuring Zee5 and Nawazuddin Siddiqui revealing the poster and short previews. These hinted at the intense narrative and deep emotional layers of the story. A slide read, “Heroism has its price,” depicting the character after an accident, while another stated, “Valor requires a toll.

Costao’s tale unfolds an engaging account of honor, bravery, and selflessness, illuminating an under-explored aspect of Goa’s past. This movie generates excitement due to its gripping plotline and exceptional acting abilities.

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2025-04-14 14:53