According to an FCS Russia press release, Sheremetyevo customs officers found “valuables worth RUB 9.4 million” on an air passenger arriving from India — more than a thousand jewellery items and gemstones.
A 43-year-old foreign national was stopped in the green channel for selective inspection. Rings, earrings and coloured stones in small zip bags were found in his trouser pockets.
He said the items were gifts for friends and that he was unaware of customs rules.
Examination confirmed jewellery in 750, 585 and 375 gold alloys with diamonds, tanzanite, tourmaline, topaz, quartz, adularia, beryl, garnet and corundum among the stones.
A criminal case was opened under Article 226.1(1) of the Criminal Code (illicit movement of strategically important resources), punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to RUB 1 million.
