NCB Merchant Bank (Trinidad and Tobago) Ltd has confirmed that the US$2 million seized by Customs and Excise offi­cials belongs to the bank.The bank maintains that the cash was being transported “in the normal course of business” and in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.Responding to questions from the Express on Thursday night via e-mail, chief executive officer Marli A Creese said, “The cash referred to belongs solely to the bank.”Addressing the circumstances surrounding the US$2 million, Creese sta­ted, “The cash was being couriered in the normal course of business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.”He also confirmed that the bank has been engaged by investigators and is co-operating fully.“We have been contacted by the Customs and Excise Division in relation to the shipment for additional verification and confirmations. The bank has complied with all requests,” Creese said.On reports that Customs identified deficiencies in the accompanying documentation, he explained that the issue related to requests for further information.“Additional supporting documentation was requested and the Bank has provided that documentation,” he said.Creese confirmed that to the bank’s knowledge, the money has not yet been released.“As far as we are aware, the funds remain in custody at the Central Bank awaiting clearance for shipment,” he stated.Asked if the bank was satisfied its own procedures had been followed, Creese maintained, “All usual and required pro­tocols were adhered to.”The Express exclusive­ly reported yesterday the seizure of the US$2 million by Customs and Excise officials who intercepted the cash at Piarco International Airport on June 25.The money, which was contained in a white crocus bag, was destined for Miami, with a stop in Jamaica, when concerns were raised over aspects of the accompanying doc­umentation.The cash was subsequently taken into the custody of the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago while investigations continue.The Express understands that Customs and Excise launched an investigation to verify the documentation and determine whether all regu­latory and procedural re­quirements governing the export of large sums of currency had been satisfied.The Express also learnt that United States autho­rities are assisting with investigations.NCB Merchant Bank said the transaction formed part of its routine banking operations and complied with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.Investigations by the relevant authorities are continuing.The Express understands the money was still being held by the Central Bank up to yesterday.‘Thorough investigation’Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo told the Express yesterday that investigations are under way.He said: “This matter is now engaging the attention of several relevant security and financial agencies. Obviously, it would be inappropriate to comment at this time. Suffice it to say that a thorough investigation is being pursued involving all parties to this transaction.”The Express sent further questions to NCB yesterday as well as Central Bank Governor Larry Howai but there was no immediate response.