Bavarian customs seize over €33,000 in undeclared cash from two travellers
Customs officers in Bavaria have uncovered two separate cases of undeclared cash within days. The incidents involved a Russian and a Czech national carrying large sums without proper declaration. Authorities have now launched administrative proceedings against both travellers.
The first case took place on February 6, when a 45-year-old Russian man was stopped on the A3 motorway near Straubing-Bogen. He initially claimed to be carrying €4,000, but a search revealed €15,800 in undeclared cash. Officers imposed a security deposit of €1,975 and began fine proceedings before allowing him to continue his journey.
Five days later, on February 11, a Czech national was intercepted at Schafberg in Furth im Wald. The traveller had declared €15,000 but was found with €17,805. A security deposit of €2,140 was set, and fine proceedings were also initiated. Both cases pushed the total undeclared sum to over €33,000.
These incidents follow a wider trend. German customs reported 8,247 similar violations in the past year, seizing around €423 million in undeclared funds. René Matschke, head of the Regensburg Main Customs Office, stressed the importance of truthful declarations when questioned by authorities.
Both travellers were allowed to proceed after customs procedures. However, they now face potential fines for breaching cash declaration rules. Violations of this kind can lead to significant penalties, as authorities continue to enforce strict controls.
