Portuguese judicial police have seized suitcases containing nearly five million euros from a man reportedly close to Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The incident occurred during a late-night stopover at Lisbon’s former military airport, Figo Maduro, according to Portuguese broadcaster SIC.

Authorities said the flight was initially declared as military and scheduled to travel from Lisbon to Beja, but investigations later revealed discrepancies in both the nature of the flight and its stated destination. The Portuguese Judicial Police confirmed the irregularities on their official website.

SIC reports that President Embaló’s wife was also on board the aircraft but was not arrested. The suspect has been detained and is expected to appear before a judge for an initial hearing to determine possible coercive measures.

The case has sparked attention due to its political sensitivity and the large sum involved, with investigations ongoing to clarify the origin and intended use of the seized funds.