Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected case of smuggling and seized about 16 800 litres of suspected marked oil valued over $40,000 in total from a fishing vessel in the waters off Sha Chau yesterday (April 8).
Customs officers intercepted a fishing vessel in the waters off Sha Chau for search last night and found a large amount of unmanifested suspected marked oil in the fuel tanks on board the fishing vessel. Two men, who were the coxswain and crew member aged 49 and 50, were arrested. The case is still under investigation.
Customs reminded person-in-charge on board fishing vessel that smuggling goods, including marked oil, is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement action to combat sea smuggling activities. Members of the public can report suspected smuggling activities to Customs through the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Saturday, April 9, 2016
