AFCD Seizes 14 Endangered Reptiles in Kwai Chung Operation Amidst Illegal Possession Allegations

2026-03-04 20:05 Last Updated At：20:18

14 endangered reptiles seized in blitz operation by AFCD

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) conducted a blitz operation yesterday evening (March 3). Fourteen reptiles of endangered species were seized from premises in an industrial building in Kwai Chung, including a crocodile, pythons, lizards and turtles.

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14 endangered reptiles seized in blitz operation by AFCD Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

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14 endangered reptiles seized in blitz operation by AFCD Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

The AFCD received a complaint earlier alleging that endangered species were illegally possessed inside premises in an industrial building in Kwai Chung. Following intelligence gathering and investigation, the AFCD immediately mounted an operation. During the operation, AFCD officers intercepted a male suspect at the premises. He was suspected in connection with the possession of endangered species listed in the Appendices to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). These included a rock iguana, a big-headed turtle, and three Indochinese box turtles, which are listed in Appendix I to CITES; and a crocodile, a blood python, a carpet python, three monitor lizards, a Chinese water dragon, a black-breasted leaf turtle, and a keeled box turtle, which are listed in Appendix II to CITES. According to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), unless exempted or otherwise stipulated, possession of Appendix I or Appendix II species requires a Licence to Possess or relevant documentary proof of the animals' origin. As the man was unable to produce any Licence to Possess or relevant document, the AFCD has therefore seized the endangered animals for further investigation.

A spokesman for the AFCD said, "Illegal possession of endangered species is a serious offence. Any person contravening the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years, and the seized specimens will also be forfeited upon conviction."

The Government is committed to protecting endangered species. The AFCD will remain vigilant and continue to monitor and collect intelligence through various channels and proactively take enforcement action to combat offences involving endangered species. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illegal possession of endangered species to the AFCD by calling 2150 6978 or emailing espint@afcd.gov.hk.

Health Authorities Investigate Serious Meningococcal Infection Case; Public Urged to Maintain Hygiene Standards

CHP investigates case of invasive meningococcal infection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 4) is investigating a case of invasive meningococcal infection, and reminds the public to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times to minimise the risk of contracting this serious disease.

The case involves a 39-year-old male with good past health. He presented with a fever, headache, rash, vomiting and diarrhoea since March 1. He attended a private hospital the following day (March 2). He was subsequently transferred to the intensive care unit of Prince of Wales Hospital on the same day. He is currently in a critical condition. His cerebrospinal fluid specimen tested positive for Neisseria meningitidis upon laboratory testing. The clinical diagnosis was meningitis.

An initial investigation revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period. His household contacts have remained asymptomatic so far. The CHP has prescribed preventive drugs to them. An investigation is ongoing. Initial findings suggest that this is a sporadic case with no epidemiological linkages to previously confirmed cases in Hong Kong.

Meningococcal infection is a statutory notifiable disease. The CHP has recorded three cases this year so far. A total of 11 cases were recorded last year.

Meningococcal infection is caused by a bacterium known as meningococcus. It is mainly transmitted by direct contact with respiratory secretions, including droplets from the nose and throat, of infected persons. Severe illness may result when the bacteria invade the bloodstream (meningococcaemia) or the membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord (meningococcal meningitis). Meningococcaemia is characterised by a sudden onset of fever, an intense headache, purpura, shock and even death in severe cases. Meningococcal meningitis is characterised by high fever, severe headache, stiff neck followed by drowsiness, vomiting, fear of bright light, or rash; it can cause brain damage or even death.

To prevent meningococcal infection, members of the public are advised to take the following measures:

Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly, especially when they are soiled by respiratory secretions, e.g. after sneezing, and clean hands with alcohol-based handrub when they are not visibly soiled;

Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, hold the saliva with a tissue, dispose of nasal and mouth discharge in a lidded rubbish bin, and wash hands immediately;

Avoid crowded places;

Avoid close contact with patients who have a fever or severe headache;

Consult doctors about meningococcal vaccination before travelling to high-risk areas; and

Seek medical advice if you become ill after returning from high-risk areas, and discuss your recent travel history with your doctor.

The public may visit the CHP'swebsitefor more information on meningococcal infection.

AFCD Seizes 14 Endangered Reptiles in Kwai Chung Operation Amidst Illegal Possession Allegations

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