Pretoria, 27 February 2019 – The South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs officers intercepted a suspected currency smuggler in possession of 997 750 US dollars which equates to R13 798 882.00 at OR Tambo International Airport on Monday, 25 February.

The male passenger had a backpack in his possession at the time. During initial interactions, the officers conducted a physical inspection of the backpack, and in the process, the passenger confirmed that he also had one checked-in bag.

The officers then proceeded to retrieve the bag and instructed the passenger to go into the Customs search area, where he was further interviewed.

During the interview, he admitted to be in possession of foreign currency, but he attempted to downplay the amount. It was however discovered that most of the foreign currency had been concealed at the bottom of two bags.

When he failed to provide a credible explanation for the currency, the officers then apprehended the suspect, and subsequently handed him over to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

​

 

To access this page in different languages click on the links below: