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Hong Kong Customs yesterday (May 27) detected a suspected smuggling case at Lok Ma Chau Control Point and seized 75 unmanifested smartphones and 2.7 kilograms powdered formula with an estimated market value of $350,000.
Customs officers intercepted an outgoing lorry declared nothing onboard for Customs clearance at Lok Ma Chau Control Point yesterday evening. During inspection, 75 unmanifested smartphones and 2.7kg powdered formula were found inside the driving compartment of the lorry. The 53-year-old male driver was arrested. Investigation is ongoing.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, the maximum penalty for attempting to import or export unmanifested cargo is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
The Import and Export (General)(Amendment) Regulation 2013 prohibits the unlicensed export of powdered formula, including milk powder and soya milk powder, for infants and children under 36 months. To allow a reasonable quantity for personal use, the prohibition does not apply to powdered formula not exceeding 1.8kg in total net weight that is exported in the accompanied personal baggage of a person leaving Hong Kong. However, the person must be aged 16 or above and must not have left Hong Kong in the last 24 hours. Offenders may face a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for two years upon conviction.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Saturday, May 28, 2016
Issued at HKT 13:56
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