Maldives Customs has seized foreign currency worth more than MVR 900,000 from an Indian passenger attempting to leave the country without declaring the money.

Customs said the currency was seized at Velana International Airport on Wednesday. The money comprised several foreign currencies with a combined value exceeding MVR 900,000.

Last month, authorities seized foreign currency worth about MVR 3.8 million from six Bangladeshi nationals who were preparing to leave the country.

The six were found carrying currencies from 18 countries, including USD174,161, 56,760 Euro and 1,815 Pounds.

They were arrested and remanded in custody for 30 days.

The government has introduced several measures to curb the black market in foreign currency, particularly USD.

A recent amendment to the Foreign Exchange Act requires resorts to deposit 40 percent of their foreign currency earnings with local banks each month.

Authorities have also warned of strict action against those selling foreign currency without the required authorization.