Hong Kong Customs yesterday (July 5) seized about 100 kilograms of suspected scheduled dried shark fins of endangered species and about 220 kilograms of unmanifested dried sea cucumbers from a container at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. The estimated market value of the seizure was about $350,000.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected a container declared to contain dried shark fins arriving in Hong Kong from the United Arab Emirates. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the suspected scheduled dried shark fins and dried sea cucumbers 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 its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, July 6, 2018
