Hong Kong Customs yesterday (April 6) seized two live turtles with an estimated market value of about $1,000 at Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. The animals seized are suspected to be endangered species and suspected act of cruelty to animals was also detected. The case has been handed over to Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for follow-up investigation.
Customs officers intercepted an outgoing passenger at Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point yesterday afternoon and found the suspected endangered species. The 27-year-old passenger was arrested.
Suspected act of cruelty to animals was also detected since the turtles’ trunks and four limbs were being wrapped by plastic tapes and put inside the passenger’s baggage.
An AFCD spokesman stated that under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a required licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and to imprisonment for two years.
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), any person found guilty of conveying or carrying any animal in such a manner or position or in a case, crate or basket of such construction or such small dimensions as to subject it to unnecessary pain or suffering is liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and to imprisonment for three years.
Ends/Saturday, April 7, 2018
