Hong Kong Customs yesterday (June 13) seized suspected endangered species items including 51.9 kilograms of suspected agarwood, 2.5kg of suspected pangolin scales and 13 suspected hornbill beaks at Lok Ma Chau Control Point. Also seized were 0.9kg of shark fin and 3.8kg of bird's nest. The total market value of the seized items is about $550,000 and a man was arrested.
Customs officers intercepted an outgoing container truck declared as having nothing on board for Customs clearance at Lok Ma Chau Control Point yesterday evening. During inspection, the unmanifested cargo was found inside the tool compartment of the container truck. The 57-year-old male driver was arrested on suspicion of breaching the Import and Export Ordinance and the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance. The case is still under investigation.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, the maximum penalty for attempting to export unmanifested cargo is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Tuesday, June 14, 2016
