Customs officers at Tolmachevo Airport seized more than 20 kg of raw nephrite from a 25-year-old Russian passenger checking in for a flight to Dubai. Source: FCS Russia.
The traveller used the green channel. X-ray screening of his suitcase revealed eight beige mineral stones. He told officers a friend had handed him the bag to avoid excess-baggage charges and that he was unaware of its contents.
Laboratory testing confirmed the seized material was unprocessed nephrite.
The mineral is classified as raw material subject to a permit regime for movement across the EAEU customs border. Individuals may not export nephrite as goods for personal use.
Novosibirsk Customs initiated administrative proceedings under Article 16.3 of the Russian Code of Administrative Offences for breach of prohibitions and restrictions. The passenger faces a fine, with or without confiscation of the stones.
