Hong Kong Customs yesterday (January 17) seized about 1 800 litres of suspected smuggled motor spirit with an estimated market value of about $30,000 and a duty potential of about $11,000.
Customs officers conducted an anti-smuggling operation in the south-west waters of Hong Kong yesterday afternoon and intercepted a motorised sampan off Cheung Chau. A large amount of suspected smuggled motor spirit was found in an illegal fuel tank inside a hidden compartment of the sampan.
During the operation, Customs officers arrested two male crew members aged 22 and 35. The sampan was also detained for further investigation.
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.
In addition, under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit motor spirit commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, January 18, 2018
