Customs Agency Alters Long-Standing Roadside Inspections Involving Firearms, Marijuana, and Tax Fraud on Motorway 17
In a significant operation, the German Customs Administration (Zollverwaltung) concluded a multi-day control measure on the "Am Heidenholz" parking lot on the A17 highway in Dresden on the evening of June 20, 2025.
The operation, which spanned several days, saw customs officers checking over 100 vehicles and nearly 300 persons. The control measures were conducted meticulously, leading to the initiation of 24 criminal proceedings and the transfer of 17 cases to other authorities.
On June 19, during the inspection of a Slovakian truck, a total of 20 kilograms of cannabis was found, leading to a criminal proceeding against the driver of the truck. The following day, another 27-year-old man from the Czech Republic was found with 22 joints in his luggage, resulting in a criminal proceeding against him.
The control measures also uncovered other illicit activities. A 34-year-old driver of a Slovakian truck initially stated that he was not carrying any prohibited goods, but upon inspection, several packages containing bags of cannabis and powder were discovered in the cargo hold. A tax evasion proceeding was initiated against the driver of a black Audi A6 for the suspected evasion of import duties of approximately €4,450.
Furthermore, a 49-year-old Czech citizen now faces charges of violating the Weapons Act after a pepper spray device without test marks was found in the car door of his vehicle on June 20.
The investigation into a Serbian passenger car led to the suspicion that the cargo might be stolen goods, prompting the involvement of the state police for further action.
For more information, please contact the Main Customs Office Dresden at the provided contact information. The office encourages all travellers to comply with customs regulations to ensure a smooth and efficient border control process.
