Hong Kong Customs today (July 11) seized about 8.16 kilograms of suspected rhino horns and 60 grams of suspected worked ivory with an estimated total market value of about $1.63 million at Hong Kong International Airport.
Customs officers intercepted a 37-year-old male passenger at the airport this morning. The man arrived in Hong Kong from Cape Town, South Africa, via Johannesburg. During Customs clearance, the suspected rhino horns were found inside his check-in baggage and the man was also found wearing a suspected worked ivory bracelet. The man was then arrested.
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 $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Tuesday, July 11, 2017
