Two foreigners caught at Suvarnabhumi with around $1.7 million hidden US cash

Bangkok, October 4, 2026 - Customs officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport apprehended two foreign passengers who had arrived from Jakarta, Indonesia, carrying approximately $1.7 million (around 56 million baht) concealed in their luggage. In response to this incident, the Customs Department has intensified its efforts to detect and intercept cash hidden by air travelers.

The passengers were subjected to a search upon their arrival on September 30, during which the hidden cash was discovered. They face charges for breaching Finance Ministry regulations regarding foreign-exchange controls and the transportation of currency into or out of Thailand, as well as violations of the Currency Act, Customs Act, and other pertinent laws.

This case is a result of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas' directive to Customs Department officers to bolster their checks on Thai, foreign, and negotiable instruments entering or exiting the country, aimed at curbing cross-border cash smuggling and potential international money laundering. The Suvarnabhumi Airport Passenger Customs Office has also intensified monitoring and inspections of high-risk passengers to prevent further illicit movements of cash across borders.

Travelers are advised to strictly adhere to the rules and laws governing the transportation of currency when moving Thai, foreign, or negotiable instruments in or out of Thailand. For more information, inquiries can be directed to Customs Department offices across the nation or by calling their dedicated hotline, 1164.