​Hong Kong Customs on May 16 and yesterday (May 22) seized a total of about 192 kilograms of suspected scheduled red sandalwood, with an estimated market value of about $1 million, at Hong Kong International Airport and in Sheung Shui. A man was arrested.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers on May 16 inspected an air consignment, declared as carrying decorative products, arriving in Hong Kong from Dubai. Upon inspection, Customs officers found a total of about 120kg of suspected scheduled red sandalwood concealed inside five carton boxes.
After a follow-up investigation, Customs officers yesterday searched a warehouse in Sheung Shui and further seized a batch of wooden blocks and beads made of suspected scheduled red sandalwood, totalling about 72kg. A 50-year-old man suspected to be connected with the case was arrested.
An investigation is ongoing. The arrested man has been released on bail pending investigation and the likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, May 23, 2023
