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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has foiled an attempt to import animals including endangered species into Hong Kong illegally from Thailand.
A department spokesman said today (January 9) that a consignment of animals destined for China was seized at the airport last night (January 8), including a crocodile, six snakes, 46 turtles/tortoises and 11 flying squirrels. Whereas the crocodile was identified as a highly endangered species, among the reptile group three-keeled land tortoises, black pond turtles, radiated tortoises and true tortoises were also endangered species.
A man was arrested after being found hiding the animals inside his luggage without any permit or health certification. He was charged under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, Cap 586, and the Rabies Ordinance, Cap 421. The court today handed down a fine of $16,000 and six months imprisonment, suspended for two years.
Under existing legislation, imported reptiles, birds and mammals must be accompanied with a special import permit and health certification. Those from the mainland must have a health certificate, and for mammals, a permit in addition to a health certificate is required. These requirements also apply to animals that are to be transshipped through Hong Kong.
Any person contravening the licensing requirements under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance is liable to a fine of $5 million fine and two years' imprisonment. Under the Rabies Ordinance, offences regarding import of animals without a permit are liable to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, import, export, re-export or possession of endangered species, including their parts and derivatives, requires a licence which must be obtained in advance from the AFCD. The control applies to tourist items as well.
The public is reminded to comply with the regulations and assist in preventing the extinction of endangered species.
To enquire import of animals and report smuggling cases, the public can call 1823.
Ends/Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Issued at HKT 20:48
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