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Hong Kong Customs yesterday (September 21) seized smartphones with a total worth of around $820,000 in an operation at Lok Ma Chau Control Point. A lorry was also seized.
Acting on information, at about 7pm yesterday, Customs officers of the Special Task Force and Lok Ma Chau Division mounted a joint operation and intercepted an outbound lorry declared to carry 184 cartons of batteries, plastic beans and integrated circuits.
Upon X-ray examination and detailed inspection on the driving compartment of the vehicle, Customs officers found two altered structures in its driving compartment. A total of 315 unmanifested smartphones, with a total worth of around $820,000, was hidden inside the false compartments. The lorry was also seized. The driver, aged 25, was arrested. Investigation is continuing.
Smuggling is a serious offence under the Import and Export Ordinance. Any person found guilty of attempting to export unmanifested cargoes is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Divisional Commander (Special Task Force)1, Mr Chan Tsz-tat, said today (September 22) that the Customs would take continuous action against smuggling activities.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs through Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Saturday, September 22, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:50
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