Vietnamese flight attendants questioned over suspected money laundering

The cash and Vietnamese passports seen in the footage by 7News allegedly belonging to Vietnam Airlines attendants during a raid by the Australian Border Force. — Photo from 7News

HÀ NỘI — Nine Vietnamese flight attendants have been questioned by the Australian authorities after they were found carrying loads of cash and suspected to be involved in money laundering.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has confirmed their knowledge of the incident, which was reported by local media in Australia.

CAAV Director Đinh Việt Thắng said on Saturday that the authority has yet to receive any formal notice from the Australian side, and has requested the national-flag carrier Vietnam Airlines to make a report clarifying the case.

A Vietnam Airlines spokesperson said its flight crews and attendants are working as usual, and the airline has asked Australian authorities for more information about the incident.

Earlier, Australia’s 7News channel reported that nine flight attendants of an airline had been questioned by Australian authorities during a raid by the Australian border force and police.

These flight attendants were found carrying a total of AUD60,000 (some US$41,600) inside their personal luggage.

7News did not mention the name of the carrier or personal details of the attendants who were suspected of committing money laundering.

According to the CAAV, the case is ‘not very serious’ and all the attendants have flown home on two different flights.

Under Australia’s regulations, any foreigner who brings AUD10,000 (US$6,935), or an equivalent amount in other currencies, must make a declaration when they enter or leave the country. Otherwise, they can be subject to fines or imprisonment.

As of current, Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways are two Vietnamese carriers operating regular direct flights to Australia. — VNS