The Albanian Border Police at the Kakavijë crossing point between Albania and Greece have intercepted a significant amount of undeclared cash during a routine border inspection. Authorities reported that a 51-year-old Greek resident, identified by his initials F. S., was caught attempting to leave Albania while carrying a large sum of money without declaring it as required under Albanian law.
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| Confiscated euros, source: Albanian Police |
Under Albanian legislation, any individual transporting cash or valuables exceeding 10,000 euros (or the equivalent in other currencies) must declare the amount at the border. Failure to do so constitutes the criminal offense of “Failure to declare money and valuable items at the border”, punishable under the Albanian Penal Code.
Following the discovery, the police immediately launched investigative procedures. The suspect, F. S., was not detained but was prosecuted at liberty, pending further investigation. Law enforcement confirmed that the undeclared money was seized as material evidence and will remain in the custody of the authorities until the judicial process concludes.
The case has been referred to the Prosecution Office at the Court of First Instance of General Jurisdiction in Gjirokastër, which will continue with the necessary legal actions.
Strengthening Border Controls
The Kakavijë crossing, one of the main border points between Albania and Greece, has seen an increase in law enforcement vigilance in recent years. The Albanian police, often in cooperation with customs and financial investigation units, have intensified checks to prevent money laundering, smuggling, and undeclared cash flows across borders.
The seizure highlights Albania’s ongoing efforts to combat illicit financial activities and align with European Union standards on financial transparency and border control. The country’s authorities have been under growing international scrutiny to reduce informal cash transactions and ensure compliance with anti–money laundering (AML) regulations.
Why Declaration Laws Matter
Financial declaration laws are designed to promote transparency and accountability. Large amounts of undeclared cash can raise suspicions of money laundering, tax evasion, or other illegal activities. In this context, the discovery of such significant sums at a border crossing is not merely an administrative oversight — it is treated as a potential financial crime.
By enforcing declaration requirements, the Albanian Border Police aim to trace financial movements, prevent the outflow of undeclared assets, and ensure that cross-border cash transfers are properly documented.
Similar Cases in the Region
In recent years, several cases of undeclared cash seizures have been reported across the Balkan region. With increased border surveillance and cooperation between neighboring states, authorities have intercepted hundreds of thousands of euros in unreported funds.
These efforts are part of a broader regional campaign supported by the European Union and international financial institutions to tighten control over illegal capital flows. Albania, aspiring for EU membership, continues to strengthen its border and customs procedures to align with European directives on the movement of money and goods.
Legal Consequences
If convicted, the suspect may face monetary fines, confiscation of funds, and potential imprisonment, depending on the outcome of the investigation and court proceedings. Even when prosecution at liberty is permitted, such offenses remain serious under Albanian law.
The procedural materials gathered by the police — including the confiscated cash — have been submitted to the Prosecutor’s Office in Gjirokastër for further investigation and judicial review.
Official Statement
In an official press release, the Albanian State Police reaffirmed its commitment to upholding border integrity and enforcing financial declaration laws. “Our officers remain vigilant at all crossing points to prevent and detect any attempt to evade financial transparency rules,” the statement said.
Authorities also reminded all travelers crossing Albanian borders that any sum over €10,000 must be declared upon entry or exit. Failure to comply will lead to seizure and criminal prosecution, as outlined in the Albanian Criminal Code and Customs Act.
The recent operation at the Kakavijë border underscores the importance of financial transparency and the vigilance of Albanian border authorities. The seizure of over €20,000 and 1.8 million lek not only prevents illegal financial transfers but also sends a clear message that Albania remains firm in its commitment to uphold the law and combat financial crimes.
As the investigation continues under the jurisdiction of the Gjirokastër Prosecutor’s Office, this case serves as another reminder to all travelers: declaring your cash is not optional — it’s the law.