Hong Kong Customs seized 300 used mobile phones, valued at about $1,000,000, from a fishing vessel in waters off Lau Fau Shan this morning (July 6).
Customs officers intercepted the fishing vessel in waters off Lau Fau Shan for a search in the morning and found six bundles of used mobile phones which were not declared on the manifest. The mobile phones were packed by black plastic bags concealed inside a gap between the wheelhouse and the main deck of the vessel. The captain and a crew member, aged 49 and 32, were arrested.
In the afternoon on the same day, Customs officers also raided a residential premises which was suspected to be the repack centre of the syndicate. One man and two women, aged 18 to 47, believed to be the syndicate members, were arrested. A vehicle believed to be used for delivering the smuggled goods was also seized. The case is still under investigation.
Customs reminded person-in-charge on board fishing vessel that smuggling goods, including electronic products, 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/Wednesday, July 6, 2016
