Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected smuggling case involving a fishing vessel in the waters off Waglan Island and seized about 120 tonnes of suspected smuggled frozen beef with an estimated market value of $4.7 million on January 12.
Customs officers conducted an anti-smuggling operation in southeast waters on that day. A suspicious fishing vessel was spotted near Waglan Island and was then signalled to stop for inspection. Failing to stop, the vessel continued to sail towards the southeast water boundary.
Later, a speedboat approached the fishing vessel. The crew members immediately jumped onto the speedboat and fled the scene.
During the operation, Customs officers seized about 120 tonnes of suspected smuggled frozen beef and detained the fishing vessel for further investigation.
An investigation is ongoing.
Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Customs will continue to take stringent enforcement action to combat sea smuggling activities.
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, January 14, 2020
