4-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) Authorities at Changi Airport intercepted two passengers attempting to clear customs with significant amounts of undeclared cash on December 7, as reported by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority in a Facebook post on Wednesday (January 3).
During routine inspections at different terminals, immigration officers uncovered concealed Singapore dollars and foreign currencies, totaling over S$101,800. In the first incident at 4 p.m. in Changi Airport Terminal 2, a passenger’s luggage revealed hidden cash exceeding S$43,900. Subsequently, at 4:30 p.m., another passenger was found carrying over 57,900 yuan in undeclared cash.
The cases have been handed over to the Singapore Police Force for further investigation.
To combat money laundering and terrorist financing, passengers entering or leaving Singapore with cash or bearer instruments exceeding S$20,000 (or equivalent currency) must declare the accurate amount. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, responsible for border security, emphasized the importance of adhering to these regulations.
Failure to declare such amounts is a violation of the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Serious Crime (Confiscation of Profit) Act. Offenders could face fines of up to $50,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both. As guardians of the border, authorities strive to maintain a balance between border security and facilitating secure trade and travel.
