Woman says customs seized her $1.4 million

Insists money was from partner draw

For 20 years, Marcia* has lived and worked in the US, saving diligently with the hope of one day purchasing land back home in Jamaica.

But she said that dream is slipping away after local customs authorities allegedly seized nearly US$9,000 (approximately J$1.4 million) in cash that she said she truthfully declared before leaving the US. Marcia told THE STAR that she arrived on the island last month with US$8,900, money she saved through a partner plan, a traditional Jamaican community savings system where members pool contributions and take turns receiving a lump sum. Participants usually agree on a fixed weekly or monthly contribution and each member eventually collects their 'draw' or payout. While the partner plan is often relied on to cover expenses such as school fees, travel, or property, the lack of documentation can make it difficult to prove the source of funds when questioned by authorities.

Marcia said that she completed the required C5 customs declaration form electronically before leaving the US. But she said customs officers still flagged her on arrival and seized the cash.

"I tried to do things the right way. I declared my money before I even left the US, but when I got here they took it. It's not like they found it hidden. I told them about it myself," she told THE STAR.

According to her, officials later informed her that she must provide proof the money came from a partner draw, something she says is impossible to produce.

"I've been saving this money for years. Now they want me to prove every detail and until then I can't get it back. I feel like I'm being punished for honesty," she said. Her return flight is booked for next week, and she fears she may have to leave empty-handed. She has since retained an attorney, who advised her to send a formal letter to the commissioner of customs and the agency's CEO to request the release of her funds.

"I just don't understand why I have to fight so hard for money I declared," Marcia said.

Under Jamaica's customs regulations, travellers may carry up to US$10,000 (approximately J$1.59 million) without special approval, but authorities reserve the right to question the source of funds and seize cash suspected to be linked to money laundering.

Marcia insisted that her ordeal shows that even honest declarations can turn into trouble.

"If I had hidden it, maybe I would still have it. Instead, I declared it and lost it. That can't be right," she said.

Efforts to obtain a comment from the Jamaica Customs Agency were unsuccessful up to press time.

*Name changed to protect identity