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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (November 20) issued summonses against the operators of two dried seafood shops for illegal possession of specimens of Appendix I scheduled species under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap 586). The cases will be heard at the Eastern Magistrates' Courts on December 22.
During an inspection in May, officers of the AFCD found that fish maws suspected to be made from swim bladders of Totoaba macdonaldi were offered for sale at two dried seafood shops on Des Voeux Road West in Sheung Wan. The shops did not possess valid licences for the species concerned. Subsequently, enforcement actions were taken and a total of 14 pieces of suspected fish maw were seized from the shops. Examination results revealed that the fish maws were from Totoaba macdonaldi.
Totoaba macdonaldi has been listed in Appendix I to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora since 1977, and are regulated under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance.
Import, export, re-export or possession of specimens of Appendix I species or their parts not in accordance with the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance is an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years. The specimens will also be forfeited upon conviction.
An AFCD spokesman reiterated that the Government attaches great importance to combating illegal trade in endangered species. Officers of the AFCD inspected more than 450 dried seafood shops throughout the territory between May and November this year. Such inspections are conducted from time to time with a view to combating illegal trade in endangered species.
To enquire about the control of endangered species and to report suspected irregularities, the public can call the AFCD on 1823.
Ends/Friday, November 20, 2015
Issued at HKT 19:11
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