Hong Kong Customs today (August 31) seized about 13 380 kilograms of suspected red sandalwood from a container at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. The estimated market value of the seizure was about $9.3 million.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected a container arriving in Hong Kong from Malaysia. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the suspected red sandalwood in the container.
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/Thursday, August 31, 2017
