​Hong Kong Customs today (December 1) mounted an anti-smuggling operation in Sha Tau Kok and detected a suspected case of illegally imported animals. Five suspected illegally imported animals with an estimated market value of about $220,000 were seized.
Based on intelligence analysis, Customs conducted an anti-smuggling operation at Chung Ying Street in Sha Tau Kok early this morning and spotted a woman, carrying a nylon bag suspected of containing animals, who entered a shop located at the Hong Kong side of Chung Ying Street from the Mainland side. Customs officers then took action and searched the shop. Upon searching, five suspected illegally imported animals, including three kittens and two puppies, were found. The woman, aged 61, and a man in the shop, aged 47, were subsequently arrested.
An investigation is ongoing and the five animals have been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.
Being a government department specifically responsible for tackling smuggling, Customs has all along been combating various smuggling activities proactively at the forefront. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to fiercely combat all types of smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, along with mounting targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to land a solid blow against relevant activities.
Customs reminds the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence.
Under the Rabies Regulation, any person found guilty of illegally importing animals, carcasses or animal products is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.
Ends/Friday, December 1, 2023
