The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday confirmed one of their officials have been taken into custody by Russian Customs officials for bringing excess amounts of money.
PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome told ABS-CBN News that former PNP Director for Comptrollership Eliseo dela Paz was taken into custody by Russian customs officials at the Moscow Airport for questioning, because he was said to have 120,000 euros (roughly P7.5 million) with him.
Passengers are only allowed a maximum of $10,000 (around 7,365 euros) in their possession, and Dela Paz was questioned for having such a big amount of money with him.
Bartolome confirmed dela Paz was included in the list of PNP officials who attended the 77th Interpol Assembly in Moscow from October 7 to 10.
Bartolome said the delegation has a contingency fund for travel, but he said the amount dela Paz was reported to have brought was way too big.
Bartolome added they are cooperating with the Philippine Embassy in Moscow to assist dela Paz.
He added the official was not put in jail but was merely taken into custody. -- ABS-CBN News
^^^ i don't know if these are first time travellers abroad -- or are they plain stupid bringing that hefy amount with them in the airport. pocket money eh?!
haven't they heard of ATM's from banks? I just wonder if all other members of the Interpol attending this Assembly would also bring cash with 'em....