The Special Prosecution of Kosovo has requested pre-trial detention for three individuals arrested after authorities discovered around €1 million in undeclared cash hidden inside a vehicle attempting to enter the country.
According to prosecutors, the suspects — identified by initials E.A., A.K., and A.L. — are under investigation for the criminal offense of money laundering following their arrest on 24 February at the Merdare Border Crossing.
Suspicious Vehicle Inspection Led to Discovery
Authorities stated that the suspects entered Kosovo at approximately 13:00 local time driving a Mercedes Sprinter van with Albanian license plates, operated by E.A., while the other two individuals were passengers. When stopped by customs officials, they reportedly declared that they had nothing to report.
However, a detailed inspection by relevant enforcement units revealed a concealed compartment inside the vehicle. Investigators discovered 18 packages of cash hidden within a modified section of the vehicle’s structure.
The seized money consisted of various euro banknotes, including €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200 denominations, with the total estimated at approximately €1 million.
Ongoing Investigation
Prosecutors said there is reasonable suspicion that the suspects attempted to illegally transport the funds into Kosovo. Authorities are continuing the investigation to determine the origin of the money and its intended use, while the court is expected to decide on the prosecution’s request for pre-trial detention.
The case follows a major customs operation earlier this week in which advanced scanning technology and inspections were used to uncover hidden cash in vehicles crossing the border.
