Hong Kong Customs seized 167 suspected black pond turtles, an endangered species, worth about $280,000 and arrested a 21-year-old incoming male passenger at Hong Kong International Airport today (October 2).
Customs officers intercepted a passenger who arrived in Hong Kong from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, at the airport for Customs clearance this morning. Upon X-ray inspection on his check-in baggage, suspicious images were shown. Customs officers opened the baggage and found 167 suspected black pond turtles.
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/Friday, October 2, 2015
