Hong Kong Customs conducted an operation against sea smuggling yesterday (April 29) and detected a suspected case of smuggling by a fishing vessel along the eastern coastline of Hong Kong.
Officers of the Customs' Marine Enforcement Group spotted a suspicious fishing vessel leaving Hong Kong off Tung Lung Chau yesterday evening. When officers signaled the vessel to stop for inspection, the fishing vessel immediately accelerated and fled, but was finally intercepted off the Ninepin Group. A batch of suspected agilawood and health food products found on board the vessel were seized. The vessel, together with the coxswain and a crew member, were detained for further investigation.
Smuggling and trading of endangered species are serious offences. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of 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 trading endangered species for commercial purposes is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Hong Kong Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement action to combat sea smuggling activities. Members of the public can report suspected smuggling activities to the Customs through the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, April 30 2014
