Ukrainians, foreigners take more Eur3 bln from Ukraine to conceal illegal incomes - Bureau of Economic Security

KYIV. April 26 (Interfax-Ukraine) - Ukrainians and foreigners have taken more Eur3 billion from Ukraine since February 24 to conceal illegal incomes and to legalize such money in Europe, Director of the Ukrainian Bureau of Economic Security Vadym Melnyk said at a meeting with customs officers from neighboring European countries.

"Ukrainian citizens and foreigners have been carrying large amounts of cash, expensive accessories and bank metal ingots across our state border since February 24," Uryadovy portal quoted Melnyk as saying.

There are conspiracies of "unknown persons," and the funds are not declared at the customs, Melnyk said.

"The goal is to conceal illegal incomes and to legalize them in EU countries. The approximate value of the assets, which have been taken abroad in this manner, exceeds Eur3 billion," he said.

The Bureau said it had analyzed "a substantial number" of such cases but did not provide details. It said it was awaiting response from colleagues in neighboring countries.

"According to the preliminary results of investigation, most cases have signs of money laundering," it said.

Melnyk noted that the money, most likely illegally gained in Ukraine, would be legalized in Europe unless law enforcement agencies give a prompt response.