The Customs, together with the Small Boat Division and Marine South Division of the Police Force, yesterday (November 29) launched a joint operation against smuggling activities in Hong Kong's southern waters. Two men, aged 28 and 40, were arrested in the operation. Two speedboats and a large batch of high-value goods, including 921 computer hard disks, 2337 pieces of fur, 77 fur coats and 2000 mobile phones, worth about $1.1 million in total, were seized.
Based on intelligence received, Customs and Police officers carried out an investigation and found that a smuggling syndicate was using two speedboats to convey high-value goods through Hong Kong's southern waters before transferring them to other speedboats for smuggling.
Yesterday afternoon, the officers raided the two speedboats at Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter and found the goods on board one of the speedboats. Two men were arrested. The investigation is continuing.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, smuggling is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is imprisonment for seven years and a fine of $2 million. The Customs will continue to strengthen its patrols, take enforcement action and exchange intelligence with other law enforcement agencies to fight against smuggling activities.
Members of the public are urged to report to the Customs Hotline 2545 6182 any suspected smuggling activities.
Ends/Tuesday, November 30, 2010
