Hong Kong Customs today (May 15) seized about 630 kilograms of suspected pangolin scales and 2 660kg of suspected smuggled mercury from a container with an estimated market value of about $1.4 million at the Tsing Yi Customs Cargo Examination Compound.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected a 40-foot container declared to contain plastic scrap arriving in Hong Kong from Indonesia. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the suspected pangolin scales and mercury in the container.
Investigation is ongoing.
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.
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 $10 million and imprisonment for ten years.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182, or dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, May 15, 2018
