Over 208 thousand euros in cash seized at Agios Dometios checkpoint

Customs Department officers of the Republic of Cyprus discovered a large amount of cash in a vehicle attempting to cross the Agios Dometios checkpoint. The total value of the seized funds exceeded 208 thousand euros.

The incident occurred on May 13 during routine checks for compliance with the rules for crossing the "Green Line". A car driven by a 49-year-old Turkish-Cypriot woman was stopped for inspection. Her 50-year-old husband was in the passenger seat.

During the search, customs officers found 50 envelopes with cash in various currencies in the car. Among the funds found were:

• 169,950 euros,
• 20,300 US dollars,
• 11,275 British pounds,
• 435,605 Turkish liras.

According to the authorities' assessment, the total amount is equivalent to more than 208 thousand euros.

Following questioning, the passengers attempted to explain the origin and intended purpose of the money, but the information provided did not convince the investigators. As a result, the entire amount was confiscated for further investigation.

The main focus of the investigation is on establishing the source of the funds and checking for possible violations of financial legislation. The case is being handled by the investigative unit of the customs service.

The authorities remind that strict rules for declaring large amounts of cash apply when crossing the border and checkpoints, aimed at combating money laundering and illegal capital movement.