Colombian man has US$600,000 seized at Las Américas Airport

Customs authorities at Las Américas Airport detained a Colombian national passenger after he attempted to leave the country through Las Américas International Airport (AILA) with US$600,700 in cash and 647,000 Colombian pesos, money that had not been declared to customs authorities.

The seizure was carried out by the General Directorate of Customs (DGA), in coordination with the Specialized Corps in Airport and Civil Aviation Security (CESAC) and the Prevention and Prosecution Unit of Smuggling and Illicit Trafficking of the Public Ministry.

According to reports, the foreigner was preparing to travel to Panama and was carrying US$599,700 hidden in a carry-on bag, while another US$1,000 was in his pockets. He also had 647,000 Colombian pesos in his possession.

The amount seized in dollars is equivalent, at the exchange rate indicated by the authorities, to approximately RD$35,981,930, an amount that, because it exceeds the limit established for the transport of cash without declaration, must be reported to the corresponding authorities.

The passenger was placed at the disposal of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which will determine the corresponding legal actions, in accordance with the investigations into the origin and destination of the currency.

The Director General of Customs, Nelson Arroyo , reiterated that the institution maintains permanent surveillance at ports, airports and other points of entry and exit of the national territory, as part of the actions to combat smuggling and the illicit trafficking of goods and valuables.

This case adds to other recent operations by the DGA against illicit trade. Last month, the agency reported the seizure of two shipping containers, one with 4.5 million Jaisalmer brand cigarettes and the other with 961 televisions of various brands and sizes.

According to the DGA, both seizures prevented tax losses exceeding RD$42.2 million in import duties and taxes.

Customs and airport security authorities have strengthened controls on passengers entering and leaving the country with large amounts of cash, in order to detect possible smuggling operations , money laundering, or other illicit activities.