€19,000 in undeclared cash were seized by customs officials at the airport while carrying out routine cash controls at the departures hall.

A Maltese passenger departing to Istanbul presented €26,000 when asked how much cash she was carrying. Another €3,200 were found in her belongings.

The €10,000 allowed by law were handed back to the passenger but the rest was seized to be presented in court once the woman is charged.

Customs said in a statement that in spite of several signs across the arrivals and departure lounges, the passenger decided not to declare this money prior to boarding her flight. The Economic Crimes Unit within the police force was informed.

EU and national legislation requires travellers to declare any amount of cash over €10,000. This is done to target and hamper money laundering.

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