The migration alarms have sounded once more in Panama after a female traveler arriving from Havana was discovered with over 16,000 balboas (equivalent to 16,000 dollars) concealed within her body and undeclared. This incident adds to a growing series of cases involving Cuban travelers at the nation's airports.
The National Customs Authority reported that the woman flew into Panama Pacifico Airport under a risk alert activated from the initial checkpoints. During secondary inspection, she voluntarily handed over an envelope containing 4,900 balboas (4,900 dollars). However, inspectors continued their scrutiny due to inconsistencies in her account and demeanor.
What followed was a surprising discovery for the agents, as the traveler had additional money hidden in intimate areas. The total amounted to 16,067 balboas (16,067 dollars), significantly exceeding the 10,000-dollar limit required by Panamanian law for declaring cash upon entry. The case has been referred to the Public Ministry, with the support of the Panama Police.
This official report comes just a day after authorities disclosed another incident involving a 48-year-old Cuban man detained at Tocumen International Airport. He was found with 135,300 dollars hidden in secret compartments of two backpacks. This passenger, also traveling from Havana, initially claimed to carry only 5,000 dollars until a scanner revealed hidden sections filled with cash bundles.
For Panamanian authorities, these consecutive incidents highlight a troubling rise in travelers from Cuba carrying undeclared money—a pattern that has been raising suspicions throughout the year. In June, August, and September, similar cases were recorded involving Cubans attempting to enter with 10,000 to 15,000 dollars concealed in luggage or personal items.
This occurrence is set against the backdrop of a complex migratory situation, with thousands of Cubans using Panama as a transit point to other countries, whether for commercial, migratory purposes, or irregular routes to the United States. In this context, transporting large sums of cash, sometimes family savings, or resources to embark on a journey, has become more frequent yet increasingly risky.
Authorities warn that failing to declare or concealing cash can lead not only to the total seizure of funds but also to prolonged legal proceedings, investigations for potential money laundering, and future travel restrictions. Panama emphasizes that this regulation applies regardless of the traveler's origin or the intended use of the money.
Understanding Panama's Cash Declaration Rules
What is the cash declaration limit for entering Panama?
The cash declaration limit for entering Panama is 10,000 dollars. Amounts exceeding this must be declared to authorities upon entry.
What are the consequences of not declaring cash in Panama?
Failure to declare cash can result in the total seizure of the money, legal proceedings, investigations for money laundering, and future travel restrictions.
Why are so many Cuban travelers carrying large sums of money?
Many Cuban travelers carry large sums for various reasons, such as family savings, commercial endeavors, or as resources for migration journeys, especially when using Panama as a transit point to other countries.