Hong Kong Customs seized about 800 000 suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $2.1 million and a duty potential of about $1.5 million at Man Kam To Control Point yesterday (September 29).
Customs officers intercepted an incoming truck declared as carrying vegetables at Man Kam To Control Point yesterday evening. After inspection, Customs officers found the suspected illicit cigarettes in 195 foam boxes mix-loaded with 145 boxes of vegetables onboard the truck.
The 69-year-old male driver was arrested and the truck was detained. Investigation is ongoing.
Customs will continue to step up enforcement against illicit cigarette activities during the National Day Golden Week period to protect government revenue.
Smuggling is a serious offence. 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.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Sunday, September 30, 2018
