Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected smuggling case of illicit cigarettes at Man Kam To Control Point yesterday (August 9). About 2.7 million sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were seized and a man was arrested.
Customs officers intercepted an incoming container truck declared to contain assorted cargoes at Man Kam To Control Point yesterday. After thorough inspection, Customs officers found about 2.7 million sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes mix-loaded with other goods in 165 carton boxes. The market value of the cigarettes was about $7.3 million with a duty potential of about $5.1 million. The 28-year-old male driver was arrested and the vehicle used for conveying the suspected illicit cigarettes was detained. The case is still under investigation.
A Customs spokesman said today (August 10), "Customs will continue to carry out stringent enforcement actions against the smuggling of illicit cigarettes at boundary control points."
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.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs’ 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, August 10, 2016
