Panama intercepts three Venezuelans with 76 undeclared gold bars

Panamanian migration authorities intercepted three Venezuelan nationals at Tocumen International Airport who were attempting to transit with 76 undeclared gold bars. During a routine luggage inspection, the Servicio Nacional de Migración (SNM) determined the individuals lacked customs declarations, valid export licenses, or documentation proving ownership of the gold.

Officials stated the individuals are suspected of being linked to a transnational network involved in cross-border smuggling, money laundering, and the financing of organized crime. Following the discovery, authorities applied Decree Law 3 of February 22, 2008, denying the passengers transit through Panama and immediately returning them to their country of origin.