Uzbekistan Stops Gold and Cash Smuggling Involving Minors
Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The Customs Committee of Uzbekistan has foiled two attempts to illegally export gold and foreign currency cash across the state border using minor children.
One incident was detected at the Navoi border customs post in Tashkent region. During an inspection of a woman departing the country, customs officers discovered two gold ingots weighing a total of about 200 grams hidden inside an infant's diaper. In addition, 70 grams of jewelry were seized from her after failing to declare the items during customs control.
According to preliminary estimates, the total value of the seized valuables stood at about 450 million soums.
In the second case, a citizen of a neighboring state attempted to export US$40,000 from Uzbekistan by concealing the money under the clothing of his 14-year-old daughter. The violation was detected while crossing the state border.
The Customs Committee recalled that individuals may export foreign currency cash from the country in an amount not exceeding the equivalent of 100 million soums, subject to compliance with customs regulations.
The agency also emphasized that involving minors in administrative offenses is classified as an aggravating circumstance. Such actions carry a fine ranging from 10 to 30 base calculating values.
If a minor is involved in committing a crime, the law provides for imprisonment for a term of five to 10 years.
Customs investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
