Hong Kong Customs yesterday (December 19) detected a suspected case of smuggling ivory in a transshipment cargo at the Hong Kong International Airport. A total of 77 pieces of suspected ivory cut pieces of 296 kilograms worth about $2,960,000 were seized.
During cargo examination, Customs officers screened a transshipment cargo declared as "assorted handcraft" originated from Namibia via South Africa and Hong Kong with a final destination to Malaysia. Suspicious images of the cargo were found under X-ray inspection. After opening the consignment, Customs officers found the said suspected ivory cut pieces.
The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for follow-up action.
Hong Kong Customs will continue to work with the AFCD to deter trafficking of endangered species.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Sunday, December 20, 2015
