Which term best describes the act of taking illegal goods into custody?

The term that best describes the act of taking illegal goods into custody is "seizure." Seizure refers specifically to the action of law enforcement officials when they take possession of goods that are considered illegal, such as contraband or stolen items. This legal process is often performed under established laws and regulations, allowing authorities to remove such items from circulation to prevent further illegal use or distribution.

In contrast, "search" typically refers to the examination of a place or person to find evidence of a crime but does not imply taking possession of the goods. "Inspection" also involves examining items but is often associated with assessing compliance with regulations rather than seizing them. "Inquiry" pertains to the act of seeking information or conducting an investigation, which does not involve the physical taking of goods. Thus, "seizure" is the most accurate term for the action described in this context.