A 58-year-old German citizen was arrested by Russian customs officials after attempting to smuggle approximately 13 kilograms of fine gold into Russia.
The man was traveling from Estonia in his caravan when the gold was discovered hidden in a cupboard within his vehicle.
Russian customs authorities reported that the man failed to declare the gold bars, leading to criminal charges for smuggling strategically important goods.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison and a fine of around 10,000 euros (about $11,120).
According to Tagesspiegel, the gold is estimated to be worth over 900,000 euros (or a little over $1 million). It bore the stamp of a Western company.
Alongside the larger bars, customs officers found smaller gold bars hidden among the man’s personal belongings.
Following his arrest, the German citizen was placed under house arrest as Russian authorities continue their investigation.
The origin of the gold remains unclear, and authorities have not yet determined the man's reasons for attempting to import such a significant amount of gold into Russia.
