German National Arrested for Gold Smuggling in Russia

A 58-year-old German national has been apprehended in Russia for attempting to smuggle 13 kilograms of gold bars, valued at over 90 million roubles (approximately $982,500), into the country. The incident occurred in the Pskov region, close to borders with Estonia and Latvia, where customs officials and FSB officers intercepted his motor home. He faces a possible sentence of up to five years in prison and fines reaching 1 million roubles if convicted. The German foreign office has not yet commented on the case, which comes amid rising tensions regarding the detention of Western citizens in Russia linked to geopolitical conflicts. This situation highlights ongoing issues surrounding foreign nationals in Russia amidst its war in Ukraine. The suspect's current whereabouts remain undisclosed as a criminal investigation continues.