Hong Kong Customs yesterday (February 15) seized about 5 150 kilograms of suspected Pterocarpus santalinus wood logs from two containers at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. The estimated market value of the seizure was about $6.2 million.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected two 20-foot containers declared to contain bauxite arriving in Hong Kong from India. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the suspected wood logs of Pterocarpus santalinus in the containers.
The wood logs were seized by Customs officers for further investigation.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
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 $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Thursday, February 16, 2017
