A Belgian expat, Marc D, has been arrested in Paraguay on suspicion of gold smuggling. This was reported by local media on Saturday. The Foreign Affairs office confirmed the arrest, and said that the Belgian ambassador to Buenos Aires in Argentina was providing consular help.
A private jet belonging to the Belgian, who lives in the United States, was intercepted at the Silvio Pettirossi airport in Asuncion two weeks ago, revealed Sudpresse. Asuncion is the capital of Paraguay. The customs documents stated the airplane was transporting around 500 kilos of bronze bullion. However, tests showed that it also contained gold. The idea was to hide the gold by mixing it with other metals, according to the Prosecutor in charge of the case.
Local media says the Belgian denies any involvement, and says he was only in charge of the passengers.
The Belgian expat was arrested on suspicion of attempted smuggling and falsifying documents, along with other suspects. They face three years in prison.
(Source: Belga)
