According to the accompanying invoice, the gold jewelry had a total value of 5,000 euros, and the glasses were valued at 500 euros. The couple was returning from a stay in Turkey, passed through the green channel for duty-free goods with their luggage upon arrival, and were then checked by customs. "Any goods not purchased within the European Union and exceeding the duty-free allowance must be declared to CUSTOMS at the red channel for dutiable goods," said Karin Schmidt, spokesperson for the Saarbrücken Main Customs Office. A tax offense procedure was initiated on the spot against both travelers. The couple was able to take the jewelry and glasses with them after paying the due tax of 1,028.83 euros.
Additional note:
Information about customs regulations and the current travel allowances can be found on the customs website (www.zoll.de).
