ABU DHABI: Custom inspectors in the capital foiled an attempt by an Asian man to smuggle SR3,750,000 (Dh3.7 million) into the country, the General Administration of Customs — Abu Dhabi said. Inspectors on duty at Al Ghuwaifat Customs Centre found the money in the possession of the traveller entering the UAE through the land port in a truck, after they became suspicious of him.
Under further inspection, officers found the money hidden in the rear seat behind the driver. A case was lodged by customs inspectors and transferred to the authorities concerned to take legal action. Mohamad Khadem Al Hameli, Acting Director-General of the General Administration of Customs — Abu Dhabi said the administration was making continuous efforts to develop customs operations and adopts high-level customs procedures and regulations that support international trade, and enhances customs revenue.
Al Hameli added: “The General Administration of Customs — Abu Dhabi is working closely with relevant government entities to implement the latest customs inspection procedures and systems. It also continues to offer various types of training and skill development programmes for customs inspectors to enhance their role in protecting the country from illegal trade.” In 2011, the UAE Central Bank raised the minimum amount of money that must be disclosed. Visitors must declare traveller’s cheques and bearer bonds that can be converted into cash from Dh40,000 to Dh100,000, or an equal amount in foreign currencies, on arrival and departure.
