A Cuban traveler arriving from Havana attempted to outsmart customs officials at Panama Pacifico International Airport by concealing over $15,000 in cash within a planner and a carry-on bag. According to local outlet Mi Diario Panamá, the individual initially declared only $6,000 to authorities, but further inspection of his luggage exposed the deception. The $100 bills were meticulously hidden between the pages of a planner and among other possessions, leading to the discovery.
In total, authorities counted $15,068, a figure that exceeds the legal limit of $10,000 that can be brought into the country without prior declaration. The funds were confiscated and turned over to the Public Ministry, as mandated by Panamanian regulations.
Recent Incidents of Undeclared Cash
This case adds to a series of recent incidents that have raised alarms in Panama regarding the irregular entry of cash from Cuba. In August, a 26-year-old Cuban was detained at the same airport with $12,000 undeclared, as reported by local media Destino Panamá. Similar to the current case, this individual also arrived from Havana and attempted to avoid detection during baggage inspection.
Earlier, in June, a Cuban woman was caught with $10,406 after repeatedly denying carrying more than the legal limit. The National Customs Authority stated that the money was seized and the matter was referred to the Public Ministry, in accordance with existing regulations.
Heightened Customs Vigilance
Moreover, in August, Panamanian press reported the seizure of boxes filled with Cuban banknotes disguised as parcels on a bus traveling the Panama–David–Frontera route. The discovery, published by La Estrella de Panamá, raised questions about the intention and destination of exporting a currency that holds no value in international markets.
These events illustrate that despite attempts to hide money in books, planners, or carry-on luggage, customs controls in Panama have become more stringent. Officials have emphasized that no one can evade detection at entry points.
The law in this Central American nation clearly states that anyone entering with more than 10,000 balboas or its equivalent in another currency must declare it, or face legal penalties and seizure of the funds.
Understanding Panama's Customs Regulations
What is the legal limit for bringing cash into Panama without declaration?
The legal limit for bringing cash into Panama without declaration is 10,000 balboas or its equivalent in other currencies.
What happens if someone is caught with undeclared cash exceeding the limit in Panama?
If someone is caught with undeclared cash exceeding the legal limit, the money is confiscated and the case is referred to the Public Ministry, with potential legal penalties.
Have there been recent cases of undeclared cash from Cuba in Panama?
Yes, there have been several recent cases involving Cuban travelers attempting to bring undeclared cash into Panama, leading to heightened scrutiny and enforcement by customs officials.