Authorities in Mali, on Monday, made a significant seizure at the President Modibo Keïta International Airport as part of their efforts to combat terrorism and cross-border crime.
Agents from the Targeting Unit of the Directorate of Intelligence and Customs Investigations intercepted a Malian traveler carrying one million, two hundred and seventy thousand euros hidden in two carefully wrapped packages.
This operation thwarted a sophisticated attempt to smuggle currency. Reports say the main suspect had enlisted the help of an accomplice with an access badge to evade customs controls.
Alerted by vigilant agents, the accomplice attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended and handed over to the authorities.
This seizure is part of a series of similar interceptions by Malian customs in recent years. In August 2024, an undeclared sum of 500,000 euros was found in a package at Bamako Airport, destined for Congo-Brazzaville. A few days later, an additional 70,000 euros were seized from a passenger traveling to Dubai via Addis Ababa.
These incidents highlight Mali’s role as a transit point for illegal currency transport, with the motivations behind these illicit transfers varying, including money laundering, financing criminal or terrorist activities, and tax evasion.
This latest interception coincides with Mali hosting the 12th UEMOA Customs Officers Forum, focusing on “fragile borders” in a world facing terrorism and various forms of crime.
