Customs expose smuggler at Vienna Airport: 25,000 pills in her luggage
An unusual case of medicine smuggling was uncovered by Austrian customs at Vienna Airport: during a random check at the end of July, two sports bags were confiscated from a traveller - containing around 25,000 pills that were apparently being smuggled into the European Union from Delhi (India).
"Cases like this are an impressive demonstration of the professionalism with which customs are tackling smuggling. Smuggled medicines evade all quality controls and can contain harmful or even life-threatening ingredients. I would like to thank all the customs officers and sniffer dogs who work so hard every day to protect consumers," said State Secretary Barbara Eibinger-Miedl.
During a risk-orientated inspection, customs dog Brownie showed conspicuous interest in two sports bags, which were then checked using an X-ray machine. The images confirmed the suspicion of possible drug smuggling.
When the customs officers opened the bags, it was revealed that both were filled exclusively with tablets - almost 25,000 tablets in total. The tablets were seized as evidence. The woman is now facing criminal financial proceedings and a heavy fine.