Hong Kong Customs stepped up enforcement and detected 64 cases and seized suspected dangerous drugs, counterfeit commodities and unlicensed pharmaceutical products with a total estimated market value of over $5.5 million from airmail and express cargo at the Hong Kong International Airport during the Singles' Day sales period between November 12 and 28.
During the period, a total of about 44.3 kilograms of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, heroin, gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), synthetic cathinone (bath salts) and fentanyl, with an estimated market value of about $5 million were seized.
A 29-year-old man has been arrested so far for suspected trafficking in a dangerous drug. Investigation is ongoing.
Suspected counterfeit products comprising 1 133 apparel items and 3 598 pharmaceutical tablets were also seized. More than 1 200 pharmaceutical tablets without an import licence were intercepted by Customs as well. The seized items have an estimated market value of about $500,000.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods with any forged trademark commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person who imports any prohibited articles not under and in accordance with an import licence commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for two years.
Hong Kong Customs will continue to step up enforcement actions at all control points during the Christmas and New Year holiday periods to combat cross-boundary smuggling and drug-trafficking activities.
Hong Kong Customs reminds members of the public not to illegally import prohibited/controlled items when making online purchase of seasonal gifts. Any import/export of the controlled items must be accompanied by valid licence or permit issued by the relevant authorities. For details on import/export controls, they can visit the website of the Customs and Excise Department at www.customs.gov.hk/en/service-enforcement-information/trade-facilitation/prohibited-articles/index.html.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, November 29, 2017
