Hong Kong Customs yesterday (August 8) seized about 6 400 kilograms of suspected American ginseng with an estimated market value of about $3.5 million at Man Kam To Control Point.
Customs officers intercepted an incoming container truck at Man Kam To Control Point yesterday evening and found the suspected American ginseng in the container.
The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.
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 10 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/Thursday, August 9, 2018
