Sheremetyevo Airport customs seized undeclared jewelry valued at more than RUB 12 million from the baggage of a 60-year-old foreign national who had arrived from Beijing. Source: FCS Russia.
Selective screening on the green channel led officers to inspect her carry-on bag, where they found 18 items — rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets wrapped in silk scarves.
The passenger said the pieces were a family inheritance from her grandmother and that she always travels with them as a keepsake.
Forensic examination showed the jewelry was new and made of 999-grade gold.
A criminal case was opened under Article 226.1(1) of the Russian Criminal Code for smuggling strategically important goods; the offence carries up to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to RUB 1 million.
