Hong Kong Customs seized about 1.6 million suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $4.3 million and a duty potential of about $3 million at Man Kam To Control Point on September 14.
Customs officers intercepted an incoming truck declared to contain fruit at Man Kam To Control Point on September 14. After inspection, Customs officers found about 1.6 million suspected illicit cigarettes inside 193 carton boxes on the truck.
The 50-year-old male driver was arrested and the truck was detained. Investigation is ongoing.
Smuggling is a serious offence. 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.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Saturday, September 16, 2017
