Was it right or fair the money was taken? Likely not. But, practically speaking, was it a good idea to blatantly take that much cash in a bag across a border?

Was it right or fair the money was taken? Likely not. But, practically speaking, was it a good idea to blatantly take that much cash in a bag across a border? That's highly questionable. I don't care who it is, government agent or not, I would just not risk it. At the end of the day, that "civil servant" is just another person - and they are liable to act in their own self-interest just like some other random individual. With such high stakes as putting your life savings on the line, it would make sense to be skeptical of anyone you make eye contact with. It's just my opinion, but I would sooner take my chances trying to smuggle the money across the border than just plainly walk through security with a bag full of cash. Unless there are specific legal/authoritative documents proving the legality of the money that's being taken across and a lawyer is traveling with me. As soon as the government seizes the money, it's an uphill battle from there.