A Chinese citizen attempted to bring two expensive wristwatches into Russia, a move that drew attention because the individual reportedly did not declare these items in the official statement. This update came through the Telegram channel affiliated with Russia’s Federal Customs Service, which regularly shares details about notable customs cases to inform the public about border controls and compliance expectations.
The watches in question were Jaeger-LeCoultre models, presented in their branded packaging. The traveler, a 41-year-old man traveling from the United Arab Emirates, passed through Domodedovo Airport in the usual green corridor. During a routine random check, officers conducted an inspection of his backpack, and the watches were discovered in the process. Local authorities stress that such checks are standard practice to ensure that valuable goods crossing borders are properly documented and taxed if necessary.
According to statements from law enforcement sources, the man claimed he did not speak Russian and was unfamiliar with the customs rules governing high-value jewelry and watches. He asserted that the white gold watch, adorned with diamonds, was purchased for personal use and carried a substantial value. Reports indicate the total worth of the items was significant enough to raise concerns about possible evasion of duties or misreporting of assets at the border.
As a result of these disclosures, the traveler faces potential criminal liability for smuggling jewelry crafted from precious metals, a category that is part of the list of strategically important goods subject to strict import controls and penalties. Russian authorities emphasize that the case illustrates the ongoing vigilance at points of entry and the importance of accurate declarations when bringing luxury items into the country. The incident underscores the broader framework of border security and the legal consequences that can arise from failing to declare valuables properly.
In a separate, unrelated note, local customs officials reported another unusual find involving a Russian woman who had a vintage book from Finland. The incident, while not connected to the watch case, highlights the diverse range of goods that can be scrutinized at border checkpoints and the consistent application of customs regulations to items with cultural or monetary value.