Hong Kong Customs today (June 19) smashed an illicit cigarettes storehouse in Yuen Long and seized about 120,000 sticks of illicit cigarettes. The total value of the cigarettes was about $300,000 with a duty potential of about $200,000.
Acting on information, officers of the Revenue and General Investigation Bureau recently targeted a syndicate engaged in supplying illicit cigarettes to buyers in Yuen Long. After thorough investigation, Customs identified the illicit cigarettes storehouse of the syndicate located at Tai Shu Ha Road West, Yuen Long. The storehouse was raided by Customs this morning. As a result, about 120,000 sticks of illicit cigarettes were seized and four men aged from 30 to 40 were arrested.
Customs will continue to undertake stringent enforcement against illicit cigarette activities in order to protect government revenue.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possessing, selling and buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty on conviction is imprisonment for two years and a fine of $1 million.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, June 19 2013
