This morning, personnel from the Anti-Money Laundering Unit and the K9 Unit were screening passengers boarding an Istanbul-bound flight. AMLT personnel noted a Guinean passenger travelling to Mali and was selected for a currency check. When questioned, the Guinean passenger declared that he was carrying €3,000 only on his person but, following on their suspicion that he might be carrying more cash, the assistance of K9 Zekkin was sought and the trusty K9 indicated that there was more cash concealed in his belongings.

 

The Guinean passenger was escorted to the Customs Departures office for a thorough check and after offloading his already checked-in luggage, a total amount of €24,745 was elevated. Following further questioning and investigations it was noted that the same passenger was, as well, acting as a cash courier for another person, who was the owner of €14,245.

 

All undeclared cash was detained by Customs and an investigation for any criminal activities, including money laundering, has been initiated, as per the legislative amendment whereby Customs can retain any amounts of cash in case of any suspicions related to criminal activities, roping in, in the investigation, both FIAU and Police..