Hong Kong Customs special operation combats smuggling of endangered species
Hong Kong Customs conducted a special operation from July to early August to combat smuggling endangered species through importation of air cargo. During the operation, Customs seized 419 suspected endangered live tortoises and 1,574 suspected endangered live coral, with a total estimated market value of about $4.31 million.
Through risk assessment, Customs inspected batches of express parcels originating from the United States and the Philippines, which were declared as clothes, toys and food, and seized the batch of endangered species. Five persons, who collected or assisted in collecting the parcels and are suspected to be connected with the case, were arrested.
An investigation is ongoing. The five arrested persons have been released on bail pending further investigation.
The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in smuggling activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people, nor to release their personal data or home address to others for receiving parcels or goods.
According to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Hong Kong Customs special operation combats smuggling of endangered species Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
Hong Kong Customs special operation combats smuggling of endangered species Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
