Hong Kong Customs today (January 21) seized about 28 kilograms of suspected Totoaba macdonaldi fish maws with an estimated market value of about $4.5 million at Hong Kong International Airport.
Customs officers intercepted two male passengers, aged 30 and 32, at the airport this afternoon. The two men arrived in Hong Kong from Hermosillo, Mexico via Monterrey, Mexico and Seoul, South Korea.
During Customs clearance, the batch of suspected Totoaba fish maws were found in their two check-in suitcases. The two men were then arrested.
The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Sunday, January 21, 2018
