Cuban customs officials recently confiscated $30,000 in counterfeit bills at Varadero's "Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport" on Saturday. These bills, clearly marked with "For Motion Pictures Purposes," were intended as props for film production.
This incident was highlighted on social media by William Pérez González, the first deputy chief of the General Customs of the Republic. He reported that an individual attempting to enter the country from the United States was carrying the fake $100 bills, which surpassed the $5,000 limit allowed for travelers.
Pérez González explained that this seizure was part of a broader initiative to tackle "illicit trafficking." Although the authorities praised their efforts, many internet users pointed out that the seized items were merely prop money used in movies or music videos.
The inscriptions "For Motion Pictures Purposes" on the front and "In Props We Trust" instead of the usual "In God We Trust" indicated the intended use of these bills, argued some social media users. "Poor person, these bills are used for making videos and such. It clearly states they are replica bills for image and promotional purposes, so it's not illegal when the bills themselves say so... my goodness," commented one individual. Another added that merely possessing these papers isn't a crime unless they are used for purchasing something, likening them to Monopoly money.
Nonetheless, some participants in the discussion pointed out that fake bills had been used in various businesses without the recipients realizing it. "The Customs took the necessary measures to prevent these from being used in criminal activities, like a recent scam in Matanzas involving a similar bill," defended a Cuban user, referencing the recent arrest of a Matanzas resident who attempted to make a purchase with a counterfeit $100 bill.
In that instance, an official account described how the individual tried to act cunningly and buy drinks at a café in the La Luisa Council with a fake bill, but failed. At Cuban borders, authorities have intensified their scrutiny to prevent the smuggling of drugs, as well as counterfeit currency, which, according to them, undermines the country's stability and economy.
This weekend also saw reports on Customs' social media regarding a new form of drug consumption involving sublingual THC strips. The deputy head of this regime body further announced that on Sunday, they thwarted an attempt to illegally export two kilograms of gold in four bars concealed within luggage at Havana's José Martí International Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Customs and Counterfeit Bills
Why did Cuban Customs confiscate the fake bills?
Cuban Customs seized the fake bills as part of their efforts to combat illicit trafficking and prevent potential criminal activities in the country.
What was the intended use for the seized bills?
The confiscated bills were intended as props for use in films or music videos, as indicated by the "For Motion Pictures Purposes" marking.
Is possessing prop money illegal in Cuba?
Possession of prop money is not illegal in itself, unless it is used to make fraudulent transactions or purchases.