# Gold smuggling at Ivato International Airport

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/gold-smuggling-at-ivato-international-airport
> Updated: 2026-09-15T09:49:20.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2.

Authorities at Ivato International Airport in Madagascar intercepted 5.75 kg of gold ingots intended for illegal export. The contraband was discovered concealed in a passenger's suitcase that had already been loaded onto an aircraft. A Malagasy national was arrested following the discovery.

President Michaël Randrianirina visited the site to announce the seizure, noting that such smuggling operations may occur approximately twice a week. He expressed concerns regarding systemic security failures, suggesting that airport employees might be aware of illicit activities that allow cargo to bypass customs and scanners. In response, the President announced the deployment of a specialized team to monitor passengers and goods up to the point of boarding to prevent further unauthorized removal of national wealth.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-15: Indonesian Customs seizes Rp 73 billion in gold at four airports

Indonesian Customs intercepted over 29kg of gold worth Rp 73.3 billion across four international airports, targeting illegal exports and ensuring compliance with new gold export duty regulations.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indonesian-customs-seizes-rp-73-billion-in-gold-at-four-airports

### 2026-09-14: Ivato Airport gold seizure: 5.75 kg of contraband intercepted

Malagasy authorities seized 5.75 kg of gold ingots at Ivato International Airport during an attempted illegal export. President Michaël Randrianirina announced new specialized airport monitoring teams.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ivato-airport-gold-seizure-575-kg-of-contraband-intercepted

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Cite as: Gold smuggling at Ivato International Airport. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/gold-smuggling-at-ivato-international-airport