HZA-B: CUSTOMS halts illegal caviar smuggling: Approximately 13.5 kilograms of 'black gold' hidden in a cavity.

Customs officials in Berlin have seized over 13 kilograms of illegally smuggled caviar hidden in a Ukrainian-registered vehicle. The discovery, made on December 22, 2025, included rare black caviar from a protected sturgeon species alongside a large shipment of pharmaceuticals destined for Belgium.

Seven people, including the driver, were questioned in connection with the case.

The caviar was found concealed in a structural void inside the vehicle. Officials recovered 13.23 kilograms of black caviar and 0.83 kilograms of red caviar. The black caviar was identified as roe from the Amur sturgeon, a species listed as endangered under the Washington Convention (CITES).

The seized caviar has an estimated market value of €11,780 in Germany. Black caviar was priced at €47.50 per 50 grams, while the red caviar was valued at €54.00 for 820 grams. Alongside the caviar, nearly 1,400 units of pharmaceuticals were discovered, intended for delivery to a recipient in Belgium. The driver faced accusations of violating pharmaceutical regulations, breaching CITES protections, and suspected customs fraud. After posting a €500 security deposit, all occupants were allowed to continue their journey. All seven individuals in the vehicle were Ukrainian nationals. Authorities confirmed the caviar was being smuggled illegally into the country.

The seizure highlights ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and illegal pharmaceutical trade. The Amur sturgeon remains a protected species, and its caviar cannot be legally traded without proper authorisation. The driver and occupants may face further legal action depending on the outcome of the investigation.