Hong Kong Customs mounted a joint-operation with Mainland Customs to combat cross-boundary ivory smuggling activities. During the operation, Hong Kong Customs seized a total of about 277 kilograms of suspected ivory with an estimated market value of about $2.77 million in San Tin.
Mainland Customs earlier conducted investigations on a suspected cross-boundary ivory smuggling syndicate and took action on June 25. A total of about 47 kg of suspected ivory was seized. Six persons were arrested.
Hong Kong Customs yesterday (July 2) also raided a warehouse of the syndicate in San Tin and seized about 277 kg of suspected ivory in total. Eight persons aged between 22 and 60, including the mastermind of the syndicate, were arrested.
Investigation is ongoing.
Customs reiterated that it is committed to combating stringently the smuggling of endangered species including ivory through intelligence analysis, risk management and cross-boundary joint operation.
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 its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, July 3, 2018
