SARS Customs officials intercepted a male passenger in possession of 16.8kg gold bars with an estimated value of R8-million at OR Tambo International Airport on Monday, February 27.

The passenger was in transit from Maputo, Mozambique to Dubai.  Upon inspection of the passenger’s travel documents, customs officials noted possible irregularities. An inspection of the passenger’s hand luggage led to the discovery of 5 gold bars.

The documentation and gold bars were handed over to the Hawks precious metal unit while the man has been arrested by the SAPS to face prosecution under Section 37 of the Precious Metals Act of 2005.

Submitted by: Sandile Memela / SARS Media
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