Customs Officials Intercept Black Money Scam at PHL

A man from Cameroon was intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection last week after he attempted to smuggle “black notes” into Philadelphia International Airport.

Customs officials discovered the “black notes,” which consisted of 100 sheets each of $100, $50, and $20 U.S. notes, during a routine baggage examination of the 34-year-old man on July 16.

“Black notes” appear as blank paper to the naked eye. But under black light, it resembles U.S. currency.

“Transnational criminal organizations sell black notes to conspirators at a percentage of face value and instruct the conspirators which specific chemicals to use to 'wash' the currency. The conspirators are told that washing the notes will transform them into counterfeit U.S. currency," according to information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

But no amount of washing will allow the notes to appear legitimate, customs officials said.

“This interception significantly illustrates Customs and Border Protection’s commitment to protecting American consumers and businesses against transnational financial crimes by intercepting these black money scams at our nation’s ports of entry,” said Susan Stranieri, CBP Port Director for the Area Port of Philadelphia. “CBP officers take our job of protecting our homeland and our economy very seriously.”

The man, who said he was headed to Newark, Del., had several interviews with federal law enforcement officials but no charges were filed against him. Officials came to the conclusion that he was unaware of the contents in the luggage and that he was delivering the package for someone he knew, officials said.

Customs officials refused his admission into the United States and ordered him removed.