Stash of Money discovered in HZA-EF's refrigerator
On Wednesday evening, 4th June 2025, a significant discovery was made at the Reitzenhain border crossing. Customs officers, during a routine check, found a refrigerator-like cooler in the trunk of a Dutchman's vehicle.
Upon inspection, several cash packages totalling over 124,000 Euros were discovered hidden within the cooler. The Dutchman, who had initially declared only around 50 Euros at the customs control, could not specify the contents of the cooler before it was inspected.
The cash and the cooler have been secured as evidence and the investigation into the 40-year-old Dutchman for suspected money laundering is being carried out by the Customs Investigation Office Dresden.
According to customs regulations, individuals must declare cash or equivalent means of payment totaling 10,000 Euros or more upon entering and leaving EU member states. This includes stating the type, value, origin, economic beneficiary, and purpose of the cash or equivalent means of payment. Failing to prove the origin and use of the cash may lead to a criminal offense.
The cooler, originally sealed and with damaged packaging, was claimed by the Dutchman as return goods from Slovakia. The Main Customs Office Erfurt can be contacted for inquiries at the provided phone number, email, and website.
It is important to note that the individual investigated by the Dresden customs authorities for suspected money fraud has not been publicly named. The further investigation is being carried out by the Customs Investigation Office Dresden.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to customs regulations when travelling within the EU. For more information, please visit the Main Customs Office Erfurt's website or contact them directly.
