Customs Officers Seize Nearly $99K In Currency At Dulles Airport

DULLES, VA — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized nearly $99,000 in unreported currency Wednesday from a traveler headed to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia out of Washington Dulles International Airport.

During an outbound inspection, CBP officers interviewed a U.S. lawful permanent resident who is an Ethiopian Citizen. He reported verbally and in writing that he had $14,000 in his possession. Following an examination of his carryon baggage, officers found $19,112.

Officers escorted the traveler to a CBP inspection station, where they could conduct a more comprehensive search. They discovered an additional $79,650 concealed inside his shoes and inside of his checked baggage. In total, officers seized $98,762 in unreported currency in violation of federal currency reporting laws.

CBP did not release the man's name because he was not criminally charged. This case remains under investigation.

“This is a significant currency seizure for Customs and Border Protection officers at Dulles Airport and is one of the largest bulk currency seizures there in a very long time,” said Casey Durst, director of field operations for CBP’s Baltimore Field Office, in a release. “Bulk currency being smuggled from the United States may be illicit proceeds from narcotics smuggling, counterfeiting, and other nefarious activities. CBP will remain steadfast in our commitment to intercepting these smuggling attempts and financially hurting transnational criminal organizations where we can.”

While there is no limit to how much currency travelers may carry across U.S. borders, federal law requires they report amounts in excess of $10,000 to a CBP officer at the airport. seaport, or land border crossing when entering or leaving the U.S.