Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected illegally imported live birds
Hong Kong Customs yesterday (May 22) seized 278 illegally imported live birds, with an estimated market value of about $800, at the Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point.
Customs officers yesterday intercepted an incoming 33-year-old male passenger at the arrival hall of the said control point. Upon examination, 278 live birds contained in bird cages were seized from his personal baggage, and he was subsequently arrested. The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.
Under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Regulations, it is an offence to import any bird unless it is accompanied by a valid health certificate. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $25,000.
Members of the public may report any suspected activities of illegal import of live birds 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 yesterday (May 22) detected a suspected case of illegal importing of live birds at the Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point. 278 live birds with an estimated market value of about $800 were seized. Photo shows the suspected illegally imported live birds seized. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
AFCD staff patrol animal release hotspots
With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past, including Wun Yiu, Tai Po; Ng Tung River, Sheung Shui; Sai Kung Public Pier and Sai Wan Ho Ferry Pier. Educational leaflets were distributed to remind the public to think carefully before participating in mercy releases of animals.
A spokesman for the AFCD said, "If members of the public release animals in an improper manner, such as releasing them into unsuitable habitats, it may adversely affect their survival."
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals by releasing them in an improper manner. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for three years upon conviction.
The AFCD will continue to conduct inspections at locations where animal release activities are likely to take place, take enforcement action when necessary, and carry out publicity and education work.
In addition, the AFCD will launch a restocking exercise on National Fish Releasing Day on June 6 to release juvenile fish with the aim of enhancing local marine resources and improving marine ecology. The department will promote the environmental benefits to the public of science-based restocking, with a view to engaging public support for and participation in these science-based restocking exercises in lieu of improper animal release activities. The public may also consider other charitable activities, such as planting trees or participating in volunteer services with animal welfare groups and environmental organisations.
With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past. Photo shows staff members of the AFCD distributing education materials at Ng Tung River, Sheung Shui. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
With a view to safeguarding animal welfare, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (May 24) deployed staff to patrol locations where mercy release activities frequently occurred in the past. Photo shows staff members of the AFCD distributing education materials at Sai Kung Public Pier. Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases
