Ethiopia Customs Seizes 5kg Smuggled Gold at Addis Ababa Airport

Mintesinot Nigussie

Authorities at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport have intercepted five kilogrammes of contraband gold concealed on a passenger arriving from Dubai, the Ethiopian Customs Commission said on Tuesday. The gold, described as processed nuggets, was discovered during a targeted inspection carried out by customs officials.

The suspect, a female passenger, had allegedly hidden the gold inside her jacket and wrapped additional quantities around her waist in an attempt to evade detection. Customs officials said the seizure followed close surveillance and a physical search conducted by officers at the airport’s customs branch.

The suspect has since been taken into custody and remains under investigation. The commission said the operation reflects ongoing efforts to curb illicit trade flows through Ethiopia’s main aviation gateway, a key transit point for passengers and high-value goods moving between Africa and the Middle East.

Gold is among Ethiopia’s leading export commodities, generating significant foreign exchange earnings. However, authorities have long flagged smuggling as a persistent challenge, diverting supply away from formal channels and weighing on official export receipts.

The commission commended customs officers and security personnel involved in the operation, noting their role in strengthening enforcement at the country’s busiest airport.

Businesses in precious metals trading, logistics and export sectors are expected to monitor such enforcement actions closely, as they highlight the risks associated with illicit gold flows through major transit hubs.

Overall, the seizure of 5kg of smuggled gold at Addis Ababa Airport demonstrates the Ethiopian Customs Commission’s continued vigilance against illicit trade and its efforts to protect the country’s formal gold export channels.