After this elderly duo was caught crossing the border with a cache of alcohol, authorities are asking whether they’ve busted a smuggling ring or just caught some tax-savvy citizens.

The couple — whose names haven’t been released by authorities — were traveling from Germany back to their home in Sweden when border patrols stopped their van. An inspection revealed they had 4.2 liters of hard liquor, 27 liters of wine and a whopping 2,692 liters of beer.

Authorities subsequently searched the couple’s home and found even more alcohol — in total, they’d brought 24,000 cans of beer into the house. Along with the stash was a journal which included people’s names and addresses, along with different types and amounts of beer.

Police officials assumed the ledger was a master list for an on-going smuggling operation, but the couple claimed the alcohol was for personal use. They had upcoming birthdays, wedding parties and holiday celebrations to purchase alcohol for, and figured they’d get it from Germany, where the goods were taxed at a much lower rate.

After hearing the couple’s explanation, the court threw out the smuggling charges and ordered the alcohol supply be returned.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Tags: Inspection, Lower rate, Smuggling, Traveling