How Much Cash Can You Take Out of the Country – Know your rights

In a recent case that grabbed headlines, a man was jailed after trying to smuggle more than £1.2 million in cash out of the UK.

Stopped at Heathrow Airport, Mazen Al Shaar was caught with two suitcases stuffed with money—far more than the £500 he claimed to be carrying.

So, why is this a crime, and what are the wider implications? Mortons Solicitors in Stockport take a closer look.

What Happened in This Case?

48-year-old Mazen Al Shaar was intercepted by Border Force officers as he attempted to board a flight to Beirut, Lebanon.

After initially denying he was carrying significant cash, officers found £1.2 million hidden in two of his three suitcases.

He later pleaded guilty to money laundering and was sentenced to 21 months in prison at Isleworth Crown Court.

This case is more than just about undeclared cash—it’s about organised crime, money laundering, and the efforts of UK authorities to shut down illicit financial flows.

Why Is Smuggling Cash Illegal?

In the UK, taking large sums of cash out of the country without declaring it is considered a red flag for criminal activity. It’s not just about tax avoidance or bending financial rules.

Authorities associate large, undeclared cash movements with organised crime—including drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, people trafficking, and fraud.

Even if the cash isn’t linked to drugs or weapons, its illegal movement is still prosecutable under money laundering laws. That’s because the act of trying to hide, disguise, or transfer criminal proceeds is a crime in itself.

The Broader Implications of Smuggling

Smuggling offences aren’t limited to drugs or weapons. Attempting to take cash, counterfeit goods, stolen items, or even endangered wildlife products out of the UK without authorisation can land you in serious legal trouble.

As the National Crime Agency (NCA) notes, money launderers are vital cogs in the machine of organised crime.

Without them, criminals would struggle to profit from their illegal activities. Removing that capability is a major blow to criminal networks.

What You Need to Know Before Travelling

If you are travelling with more than £10,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) in or out of the UK, you must declare it to HMRC.

Failure to do so could result in the money being seized, criminal prosecution, and even jail time—especially if there is suspicion of unlawful intent.

Many people are unaware of the rules around carrying cash internationally. Even legitimate travellers can fall foul of the law if they don’t properly declare their assets.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Facing a charge related to smuggling, money laundering, or undeclared assets can be overwhelming. It’s vital to have experienced legal representation to protect your rights and ensure that your side of the story is heard in court.

At Mortons Solicitors, we specialise in defending individuals accused of serious financial crimes, including money laundering and smuggling.

Our team works to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that’s through early legal advice or robust defence at trial.

How Can We Help?

If you have any questions regarding this or have been accused of smuggling cash or indeed, facing any kind of financial crime investigation, don’t delay. Speak to our expert team at Morton’s Solicitors for clear, confidential advice. Call us on 0161 477 1121 or contact Morton’s Solicitors today for immediate legal support.