Hong Kong Customs yesterday (April 16) seized about 54 200 kilograms of suspected Dalbergia species wood logs (rosewood) from two containers at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. The estimated market value of the seizure was about $2.2 million.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected two containers arriving in Hong Kong from Honduras. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the wood logs in the containers.
The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, April 17, 2019
