Traveller Stopped at Manchester Airport Over Undeclared Cheque

Manchester, August 18, 2026 — A traveller identified as Bolek Aleksander Novak was reportedly stopped by customs officials at Manchester Airport on Tuesday while preparing to travel to Sydney, Australia, after authorities discovered an undeclared lump-sum cheque among his travel documents.

Bolek was travelling from Manchester to Sydney when Border Force officials reportedly questioned him about the financial instrument. Under UK rules, travellers leaving Great Britain with cash or qualifying financial instruments worth £10,000 or more, or the equivalent in another currency, are required to make a declaration before departure. Certain cheques and other financial instruments fall within the rules.

According to the circumstances described, Bolek may be required to provide documentation establishing the legitimate source and purpose of the funds. UK customs guidance states that travellers making a cash declaration may be asked for information about who owns the funds, the recipient, the amount being carried, its source and what it will be used for.

Bolek is also expected to provide proof of funds and supporting documentation regarding his employment and tax status. If appropriate, he may seek a letter or certificate from his HR department confirming that he is not employed or working in the United Kingdom and explaining the nature and source of the lump-sum payment. Such documentation, however, would not itself replace any customs declaration required under UK law.

Officials could also consider whether a penalty is appropriate for the failure to declare the instrument. UK government guidance states that undeclared cash may be seized and that a penalty of up to £9,000 can be imposed for its release. The precise outcome would depend on the circumstances and the decision of the relevant authorities.

If the funds are satisfactorily explained and there are no other concerns, Bolek could ultimately be permitted to continue his journey after completing any required declaration, providing supporting documentation and, if imposed, dealing with any applicable penalty.

The incident highlights the importance of travellers checking UK customs requirements before carrying substantial sums of money or qualifying financial instruments across international borders. Travellers leaving Great Britain can make the required declaration online before departure, with declarations available up to 72 hours before travelling.