Hong Kong Customs seized about six million suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $16.6 million and a duty potential of about $11.5 million in Sheung Shui and Ta Kwu Ling yesterday (October 10). Three men were arrested in the operation.
Customs officers first intercepted a truck in Sheung Shui and seized about 0.9 million suspected illicit cigarettes. The truck, which is suspected to be used for illicit cigarette distribution, has been detained. Three men including the truck driver, aged between 22 and 48, were arrested.
After investigation, officers then raided an iron sheet storehouse, which is suspected to be used for illicit cigarette storage in Ta Kwu Ling. About 5.1 million suspected illicit cigarettes were further seized inside.
Investigation is ongoing.
Customs will continue to combat illicit cigarette activities on all fronts by a multi-pronged approach.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Sunday, October 11, 2020
