Officials from the National Customs Authority of Panama intercepted a Cuban national attempting to smuggle a large sum of undeclared cash through an international airport. The seizure occurred at the Panama Pacifico International Airport and involved money concealed on the passenger’s body. National Police officers assisted customs inspectors in securing a total of $16,067.
The passenger, a woman arriving on an international flight from Havana, Cuba, was initially flagged by a risk alert system. She underwent a routine scanner screening and an interview with a customs inspector. Authorities noted inconsistencies in her statements and documentation, prompting a more thorough secondary inspection.
Secondary Inspection Reveals Hidden Cash
During the secondary check, the passenger voluntarily placed an envelope containing $4,900 on a table. Inspectors decided to proceed with a physical search based on their initial suspicions. That search revealed an additional $11,167 concealed within her intimate clothing. The combined total was immediately retained by the state.
The customs authority confirmed the funds were seized for violating national declaration laws. All currency transfers exceeding $10,000 must be formally declared upon entering or leaving Panama. Failure to do so can result in a full money seizure by the government.
“A case of transporting hidden and undeclared money was detected by the National Customs Authority at the Panama Pacifico air terminal,” the agency said in an official statement. [Translated from Spanish]
Customs procedures were followed precisely after the discovery. Officials have formally notified the Public Ministry, which is now handling the legal process and any further investigation. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat illicit financial movements through Panamanian ports of entry.
This incident serves as a stark reminder for all travelers. Strict compliance with financial declaration laws is not optional. Authorities continue to deploy advanced profiling and inspection techniques to detect these violations, ensuring the country’s economic security.