SIX foreign nationals accused of attempting to leave Fiji with undeclared foreign currency exceeding exchange control limits were granted bail yesterday by the Nadi Magistrate’s Court.
Manish, Chandran Dasu, Harish Sampath, Sanjana Chandran, Malini, and Krishna Kumar appeared before Magistrate Talei Kean.
Each of the accused faces one count of failing to report currency at the border and one count of money laundering.
The prosecution alleges that on July 12 at Nadi International Airport, the group attempted to board international flights while carrying substantial amounts of foreign cash without declaring the funds to the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.
Under Fijian law, travellers leaving or entering the country must declare any currency exceeding $F10,000.
Prosecution documents outline the specific sums involved. Manish allegedly possessed $US13,260 and $A850.
Mr Sampath had $US14,250, $A2350, 250 Indian rupees, 25 Mauritius rupees, and $F771.
Ms Chandran carried $US2952, $A8650, £1940 GBP, and 1320 Indian rupees.
Ms Malini was caught with $US6147 and $A2920.
Mr Dasu had $US842, $A15,400, €7750 EUR, and $F50.
Mr Kumar carried $US1122, $A12,000, and 700 Indian rupees.
The court heard the accused had entered Fiji on business visas to sell hair oil products at the Showcase in Suva.
The six have been bailed with strict conditions with the matter adjourned to October 2.
