A Russian woman was detained at Pulkovo Airport in Saint Petersburg after security found a Swiss Patek Philippe watch in her possession. The incident was reported by the Federal Customs Service via an official channel.
The traveler, a Russian citizen, arrived on a flight originating from the United States and passed through the green corridor, which indicates that she had no items to declare. During a subsequent search, authorities discovered a high-value accessory valued at approximately six million rubles.
Initial assessments indicated that the watch featured 18‑carat gold, diamonds, and sapphire glass, underscoring its luxury status and craftsmanship. When questioned by customs officers, the woman claimed she was unaware that the item needed to be declared.
The case has drawn attention to potential charges related to jewelry smuggling, with authorities noting that such goods are subject to strict controls given their strategic importance. If convicted, the passenger could face a substantial prison term as prosecutors pursue the matter under applicable smuggling and border regulations.
The situation at Pulkovo underscores the ongoing vigilance of customs teams in screening passengers and belongings for contraband, even when travelers pass through the green corridor. In another recent incident at the same airport, an individual was detained for attempting to smuggle cocaine from Colombia into Russia, illustrating the wide range of enforcement activity at this gateway.
Authorities emphasize that all passengers should understand their declaration obligations to avoid inadvertent violations. As investigations continue, officials are documenting the case carefully to determine the best course of action under the law, while ensuring that security measures remain thorough and consistent across all arrivals and departures.
At present, the public record confirms the detention and the material found, with officials indicating that further legal steps will follow based on the outcome of formal proceedings and the interpretation of relevant regulatory provisions.