Tanzanian citizen caught trying to bring 60,000 euros and expensive jewelry into Latvia
A Tanzanian citizen arriving from Zurich on June 5 attempted to bring over 60,000 euros in cash and jewelry worth 7,614 euros into Latvia without declaring them. Customs has handed the case over for criminal prosecution.
On June 5 of this year, a Tanzanian citizen was detained at Riga Airport after arriving on a flight from Switzerland. Upon arrival, he chose the green corridor, implying he had no goods to declare. However, based on risk assessment, customs officers directed him for a thorough inspection.
When asked about any items or cash, the man claimed he had nothing to declare. A search of his luggage revealed two new gold rings in their original packaging, valued at a total of 7,614 euros, along with several envelopes containing cash in various currencies – altogether 60,628 euros.
Since these items were not declared and the situation indicated a possible criminal offense, the case was transferred to the Tax and Customs Police. Criminal proceedings have been initiated under the Criminal Law for contraband and for non-declaration of large amounts of cash. The penalties range from up to three years' imprisonment to alternative sentences such as probation or fines.
Under the Criminal Procedure Law, the person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The State Revenue Service reminds that when crossing the EU external border, goods and cash exceeding 10,000 euros must be declared.
