Hong Kong Customs today (April 12) conducted an anti-illicit cigarette operation in Tuen Mun and shut down a suspected illicit cigarette storage centre. A total of about 1.1 million suspected illicit cigarettes with a total estimated market value of about $5.1 million and a duty potential of about $3.8 million were seized.
Early this morning, Customs searched a suspicious metal hut in Tai Lam, Tuen Mun. After inspection, Customs officers seized a total of about 1.1 million suspected illicit cigarettes inside the metal hut and on a light goods vehicle nearby. A 38-year-old male driver who was suspected to be connected with the case was arrested at the scene and the light goods vehicle suspected to be used for storing and distributing illicit cigarettes was detained.
An investigation is ongoing and the arrested man has been released on bail pending further investigation.
Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at source as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.
Customs reminds members of the public that it is an offence to buy or sell illicit cigarettes. Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Ends/Friday, April 12, 2024
