Hong Kong Customs seized about 36 000 items of suspected counterfeit and smuggled goods with an estimated market value of about $1.2 million at Man Kam To Control Point on December 13.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers intercepted an incoming container truck at Man Kam To Control Point on that day. The batch of suspected counterfeit and smuggled goods, including mobile phones, watches, mobile phone accessories and footwear, was found inside the container. The 65-year-old male driver was then arrested.
After follow-up investigation, Customs officers arrested two men, aged 41 and 51, suspected to be involved in the case in Tsim Sha Tsui on December 16. About 170 items of suspected counterfeit mobile phone parts were further seized at a shop in the district.
Investigation is ongoing and the three arrested men have been released on bail pending further investigation.
Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods to which a forged trademark is applied 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 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 counterfeiting and smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, December 18, 2019
