The Region - News from April 1, 1986

A Brazilian jeweler was fined $100,000 and placed on five years’ probation for attempting to smuggle gems worth about $400,000 through airport customs by hiding them in his luggage. El Meng Tsai, 41, was convicted in Los Angeles federal court on Feb. 25 on three counts of smuggling and making false statements to customs agents at Los Angeles International Airport, where he was arrested Oct. 30. Customs inspectors found about 1,000 diamonds, rubies, sapphires and other loose or mounted stones hidden in his razor, shampoo, tennis racquet cover and luggage. U.S. District Judge Harry Hupp gave Tsai until April 14 to pay the fine or be jailed until the money is paid, said Assistant U.S. Atty. Mark Bonner.