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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) seized a batch of illegally kept live chickens from On Po Village, Sheung Shui today (January 27).
The AFCD received a report earlier about poultry being kept at a scrap yard in On Po Village. Subsequent to its investigations, the AFCD seized 74 live chickens from the scrap yard today.
Follow-up investigations will continue. After taking samples for testing, the AFCD has disposed of all the chickens seized.
An AFCD spokesman said that in Hong Kong the keeping of livestock and connected activities are regulated under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance. Poultry farms must hold a valid licence for keeping livestock.
Additionally, a ban on backyard poultry has been in force since 2006. The unauthorised keeping of five kinds of poultry - chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons and quails - is an offence with a maximum fine of $50,000. Repeat offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000.
The spokesman warned that people faced prosecution if they kept poultry illegally. Suspected cases of illegal keeping of poultry should be reported to 1823.
The spokesman also reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds, live poultry and their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Ends/Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:20
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