Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected case of using a cross-boundary private car to smuggle illicit cigarettes today (June 22). About 140 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were seized.
Customs officers early this morning intercepted a cross-boundary private car in Lok Ma Chau. About 140 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were found in the vehicle. The market value of the cigarettes is about $390,000 with a duty potential of about $270,000. A 43-year-old male driver was arrested and the private car used in the suspected smuggling of illicit cigarettes was detained for further investigation.
Hong Kong Customs will closely monitor illicit cigarettes smuggling activities using cross-boundary private car and continue to carry out stringent enforcement action against illicit cigarette activities.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, smuggling is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is a 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 is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, June 22, 2016