Pretoria – Customs officials at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg apprehended five people who were found in possession of currency to the value of R23 million and US$3.775 million.
The estimated value of the undeclared currency is R78 million, said the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
The passengers, who were in possession of eight luggage bags and four backpacks, were scheduled to depart from South Africa on a United Arab Emirates flight to Dubai on Friday.
“Upon noticing the SARS officials, the passengers retreated and headed back to the entrance of the boarding gate. At this point, officials closed the boarding gate door and the passengers were compelled to wait for the SARS officials.
“When questioned by SARS officials on whether they were in possession of any currency, one of the passengers speaking on behalf of the group stated that he had R100 000 and that the other individuals also had currency,” explained SARS.
The five were escorted back to immigration at international arrivals, booked back into South Africa and escorted to customs.
SARS said the 11 bags in which the currency was held were sealed in the presence of the travellers to be handed over to the South African Reserve Bank for further investigation.
‘SARS appreciates the collaborative efforts and support it receives from the various law enforcement agencies and ACSA in our efforts to protect the country and its citizens by disrupting organised crime and reducing illicit trade activities,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za
