Hong Kong Customs yesterday (December 9) smashed a suspected illicit cigarette storehouse in Kowloon City and seized 283 400 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes, valued at about $720 000 with a duty potential of about $540 000.
While conducting an anti-illicit cigarette operation in Kowloon City yesterday, Customs officers intercepted a man and found 2 800 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes in plastic bags carried by him. The man was then escorted to his residence where 280 600 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were seized. The 51-year-old man was arrested.
Customs will continue to undertake stringent enforcement against illicit cigarette activities to protect government revenue.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possessing, selling and buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty on conviction is imprisonment for two years and a fine of $1 million.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, December 10, 2015
