The value of the seized gold bars is more than $67,000.
A package with a claimed value of $125 that was supposed to be shipped to Hong Kong and contained clothing was instead intercepted by border guards at the port of Cincinnati and found to be laden with gold. The estimated value of the gold hidden inside the package is $67,830 (Rs 56,12,854).
According to US Customs and Border Protection, agents at the Port of Cincinnati selected a package on March 9 for X-ray examination. The cargo had arrived from San Francisco and was headed for Kowloon in Hong Kong. It was reported to contain apparel with a retail value of $125.
“Noticing density discrepancies during X-ray screening, officials opened the shipment and found four gold bars and a box of loose gold concealed within the articles of clothing.” the agency said in a statement.
“Cincinnati officials requested the assistance of CBP’s Laboratories and Scientific Services (LSS) to analyze the gold in the shipment. LSS confirmed that the gold was approximately 98% pure, the lead import specialist at the Centers of Excellence and Expertise was responsible for the shipment. at $67,830 to assess value.”
“Our officers process millions of legitimate business imports and exports each year at the Port of Cincinnati,” said Richard Gillespie, director of the Port of Cincinnati.
“While they sustain the US economy by facilitating legal trade and investment, the authorities also protect the nation’s revenue and its citizens from individuals and entities who attempt to evade import and export requirements.”
“As the volume and demand for US exports grows, our officers and experts protect our economy by maintaining a strong and unified presence at our borders and by leveraging their experience and technology to detect illegal shipments “