Hong Kong Customs today (April 19) seized about 400 000 suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $1.1 million and a duty potential of about $800,000 in Yuen Long.
During an anti-illicit cigarette operation at Sham Chung Road in Yuen Long this morning, Customs officers intercepted a man moving nylon bags and found about 30 000 suspected illicit cigarettes inside the nylon bags. Later, Customs officers further seized about 370 000 suspected illicit cigarettes from the man's flat in the district.
The 52-year-old man was arrested. Investigation is ongoing.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes 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 illicit cigarette activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, April 19, 2018
