Hong Kong Customs yesterday (December 8) detected a suspected case of using a cross-boundary private car to smuggle about 120 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes. Three similar cases were detected by Customs on September 23 and November 4 and 11 this year.
Customs identified a syndicate suspected of using a cross-boundary private car to smuggle illicit cigarettes for speedy distribution to peddlers. Customs officers took enforcement action last night and intercepted the cross-boundary private car in Tsuen Wan. A total of about 120 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were found in the vehicle. The total market value of the cigarettes was about $330 000 with a duty potential of about $230 000. A 28-year-old male driver was arrested and the cross-boundary private car involved was detained. Investigation is ongoing.
Hong Kong Customs will closely monitor illicit cigarette smuggling activities using cross-boundary private vehicles and continue to carry out stringent enforcement action against illicit cigarette activities.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, smuggling is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Wednesday, December 9, 2015
