€500,000 Cash Smuggling Attempt Discovered by North Macedonia Customs at Tabanoc Border
North Macedonia customs authorities have intercepted an attempt to smuggle approximately €500,000 in cash at the Tabanoc border crossing.
The money was discovered during a detailed inspection of a minibus owned by a tourist agency from Albania, which was transporting seven passengers at the time of the control.
Officials confirmed that the cash was hidden inside a specially modified compartment within the vehicle’s structure.
How Cash Was Found in Modified Minibus Carrying Albanian Tourist Group
According to customs officials, suspicions arose after inspectors noticed irregular modifications in the minibus.
A customs dog was deployed to examine the vehicle and signaled a possible hidden cargo in a specific area.
The vehicle was then subjected to mobile scanning by the Customs Mobile Scanning Service, which further confirmed irregularities inside the structure.
Following a physical inspection and partial dismantling of the vehicle, authorities discovered the concealed cash.
Hidden “Bunker” Structure Used to Conceal Half a Million Euros in Cash
Officials stated that the money was hidden in a purpose-built compartment described as a “bunker” inside the minibus.
The cash was reportedly packaged into 14 transparent plastic bags and carefully placed inside the hidden space.
Customs authorities emphasized that the concealment method indicated a planned attempt to bypass border control procedures.
North Macedonia Customs Says This Is Largest Currency Seizure in Country’s History
Director of Customs Administration Boban Nikolovski confirmed that the seizure is the largest foreign currency confiscation ever recorded in North Macedonia.
He stated that both the cash and the minibus were permanently confiscated following the operation.
Authorities also confirmed that a court decision has already been issued by the Basic Court in Kumanovo against the driver.
Albanian Driver Identified in Court Proceedings Over Alleged Smuggling Attempt
The driver of the minibus was identified as an Albanian citizen with initials Xh.G., who was operating the vehicle during the incident.
He is currently subject to judicial proceedings following the seizure of the cash and the vehicle.
Authorities have not released further details regarding possible additional suspects linked to the case.
Confiscated Funds Transferred to State Institutions After Border Seizure Operation
Following legal procedures, the seized currency was handed over to the Agency for Management of Confiscated Property.
The funds were later deposited with the National Bank of North Macedonia in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Officials stated that the case remains under legal follow-up as part of ongoing anti-smuggling enforcement measures at border crossings.