Currency valued at R78-million confiscated at OR Tambo
The passengers were in possession of eight luggage bags and four backpacks
CURRENCY to the estimated value of R78-million was confiscated at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday.
Customs officials apprehended five individuals in possession of currency to the value of R23 million and $ US 3.775 million. The passengers were scheduled to depart South Africa on an United Arab Emirates flight to Dubai.
Risk profiling earlier by SARS custom officials identified the passengers and led to their apprehension as they boarded the aircraft at 9.45pm.
The passengers were in possession of eight luggage bags and four backpacks. 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.
The five individuals were escorted back to immigration at international arrivals, booked back into South Africa and escorted to Customs.
In total, 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.
