Schwarzenegger detained over undeclared $24K watch, faces hefty fine and lights cigar post-release
Schwarzenegger was detained shortly before 8 a.m. Eastern Time, after arriving from Los Angeles. "Bild" reports that the movie star had brought along a valuable timepiece from Swiss brand Audemars Piguet to the World Climate Summit in Kitzbuehel.
3:23 AM EST, January 20, 2024
Upon Schwarzenegger's declaration, the watch, valued at approximately $24,000, was set to be auctioned on Thursday during a dinner that would precede the official opening of the summit.
Schwarzenegger first caught the eye of the customs officers due to being a high-profile passenger. Customs requested he open his luggage for a standard inspection with no specific suspicions. Despite initial calm during the procedure, as per "Bild," Schwarzenegger began growing anxious as his departure for Kitzbuehel approached.
- A tax investigation has been initiated. The watch should have been declared upon importation," stated Thomas Meister, spokesperson for the Munich Main Customs Office, justifying the hold-up.
Schwarzenegger was released around 10:45 a.m. (Eastern Time). His first action was to light a cigar in his car, emphasizing "Bild." His questioning lasted three hours, during which Schwarzenegger, with an estimated net worth of $577 million, was asked personal questions, including his children's names, money in his bank, and total net worth. Due to the circumstances, he sought legal counsel.
The actor was fined approximately $42,000 for transporting a $31,000 watch without prior declaration, as per "Bild".
Schwarzenegger received an escort to the bank
Schwarzenegger faced further complications despite being prepared to pay the total acceptable amount with a credit card. Customs required that half of the fines be paid in cash, totaling roughly $21,300. Given this, the actor, who didn't carry a large cash amount especially in euros, was escorted to a bank by an officer, stated "Bild".
