Hong Kong Customs seized about 16 kilograms of suspected dried shark fins of Sphyrnidae, an endangered species, and arrested a man at Hong Kong International Airport today (December 14).
Customs officers intercepted a 20-year-old incoming male passenger at the airport this afternoon. The man arrived in Hong Kong from Mozambique via Johannesburg, South Africa. During Customs clearance, about 16kg of suspected dried shark fins of Sphyrnidae were found inside his check-in baggage.
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 an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Monday, December 14, 2015
