Dominican Customs seizes US$600,700 at Las Américas International Airport

Santo Domingo.- The General Directorate of Customs (DGA), in coordination with airport security authorities and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, seized US$600,700 and 647,000 Colombian pesos at Las Américas International Airport (AILA) after the money was not declared as required by Dominican law.

The seizure followed an intelligence operation involving the Specialized Airport and Civil Aviation Security Corps (CESAC) and the Prosecutor’s Office’s Unit for the Prevention and Prosecution of Smuggling and Illicit Trafficking. Authorities detected a Colombian passenger attempting to travel to Panama with US$599,700 in his carry-on luggage, US$1,000 in his pockets, and 647,000 Colombian pesos.

The passenger, whose identity was not disclosed, was placed at the disposal of the Public Prosecutor’s Office for the corresponding legal proceedings.

DGA Director General Nelson Arroyo said the institution will maintain permanent surveillance at the country’s ports and airports to strengthen the fight against smuggling and other illicit activities.