Hong Kong Customs yesterday (October 28) seized a batch of suspected smuggled smart electronic products and about 19 000 suspected illicit cigarettes with a total estimated market value of about $2.1 million at Shenzhen Bay Control Point.
Customs officers intercepted an incoming truck at Shenzhen Bay Control Point yesterday. Upon inspection, the batch of suspected smuggled goods was found onboard the truck, including 205 new-model smartphones, 515 used mobile phones, 35 tablets, other electronic products and about 19 000 suspected illicit cigarettes.
The 38-year-old male driver was arrested. An investigation is ongoing.
Customs will continue to monitor different kinds of smuggling trends through risk assessment and intelligence analysis with a view to stepping up enforcement action against relevant illegal activities.
Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
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 smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Thursday, October 29, 2020
