Two Singaporean have been charged in the Adelaide Magistrates Court with dealing with criminal proceeds, after they were found to be jointly carrying A$520,450 (S$550,649) at Adelaide Airport.
The two men, both aged 34, were foiled by an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Cash and Drug Detector (CADD) dog named Utana on Sunday (Dec 4), AFP said on its website.
The dog had approached one of them in the check-in area. After searching his luggage, police found A$250,000.
The second man was subsequently identified, and after a search of his bag, was found to be carrying A$270,450.
They were arrested and charged with dealing with money suspected of being a proceed of crime, contrary to section 400.9 (1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).contrary to section 400.9 (1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). This offence warrants a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment.
Acting AFP Adelaide Airport Police Commander Gavin Stone said Utana was instrumental in the seizure.
"This is the largest cash seizure detected by one of our dogs at Adelaide Airport," he said.
"Our canines work collaboratively with our officers to form an integral role in security in the aviation environment."
Travellers are reminded to declare if they are carrying over A$10,000 in Australian currency or its equivalent, before departing Australia, AFP said.
