The Customs and Excise Department yesterday (September 7) seized over $2.2 million worth of electronic goods, including tablet computers, mobile phones, computer memories and a motorised sampan in an anti-smuggling operation.
Yesterday morning, Customs officers of the Special Task Force and Marine Enforcement Group mounted a joint operation in northeast waters of Hong Kong.
At noon, a motorised sampan was intercepted for inspection off Shek Ngau Chau. Officers searched the sampan and found 138 tablet computers, 230 mobile phones and 5 450 computer memories, worth over $2.2 million inside a hidden compartment near the oil tank. A 54-year-old man was arrested at the scene for attempting to export unmanifested cargo. The Customs' investigation is continuing.
Smuggling is a serious offence under the Import and Export Ordinance. The maximum penalty is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
The Customs will take continuous action against smuggling activities. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs through the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, September 8, 2011
