In a significant operation on Friday afternoon, customs agents stationed at the Bab Sebta border crossing between Morocco and Ceuta intervened to confiscate a substantial load of gold concealed within a vehicle attempting to cross the border. The driver, who was departing Ceuta and entering Moroccan territory, was found in possession of almost three kilograms of gold during a thorough inspection. Specifically, a total of 2.87 kilograms of gold was discovered in various forms, including chains, bracelets, and other jewelry items, all cleverly hidden in small packages tucked away in the car.
The customs officials became suspicious of the driver, a Moroccan residing in Spain, who was operating a Volkswagen Touran with Spanish plates. Their suspicions led to a meticulous search of the vehicle, during which they uncovered hidden compartments that had been modified to conceal the gold within the floor of the car. This strategic maneuver was evidently intended to evade customs scrutiny.
This intervention marks a notable event, as it has been many years since such a large quantity of gold was seized at the Bab Sebta crossing. Following the discovery, an investigation has been initiated to ascertain all circumstances surrounding this case, including potential connections to other activities. The driver is now required to provide explanations regarding the attempt to smuggle this considerable amount of gold, which was distributed among various pieces of jewelry, the origins of which must also be clarified.
The method employed to introduce the gold into Morocco appears to have been designed to avoid detection, with the driver having divided the gold into different packages, which were then hidden in the car's compartments. Upon locating the initial packages, customs agents proceeded to continue their search until they uncovered the remainder of the contraband.
The Spanish authorities have been informed of the incident since the driver had just passed through the Ceuta control point. The gold haul included not only watches, bracelets, rings, and chains but also religious medals; however, it remains unclear if any of the items bear engravings. The driver, aged 35, had intended to smuggle this gold into Morocco, but ongoing inspections of vehicles entering and exiting Ceuta thwarted his plans. An inquiry is now underway to determine the intended destination of the seized materials.
As reported by elfarodeceuta.es.
