Hong Kong Customs today (February 10) seized about 12.1 kilograms of suspected rhino horns with an estimated market value of about $2.4 million at Hong Kong International Airport.
Customs officers intercepted two male passengers, aged 26 and 42, at the airport this afternoon. The two men arrived in Hong Kong from Johannesburg, South Africa, via Doha, Qatar.
During Customs clearance, suspected rhino horns wrapped in aluminum foil and foam were found inside a paper box in their check-in suitcase respectively. A total of about 12.1 kilograms of suspected rhino horns were seized. The two men were then arrested.
The cases were 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/Saturday, February 10, 2018
