Hong Kong Customs yesterday (December 15) seized about 2.56 million sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $6.9 million and a duty potential of about $4.8 million in Kowloon Bay.

     During an anti-illicit cigarette operation yesterday, Customs officers intercepted a truck in Kowloon Bay. After inspection, Customs officers found about 2.56 million sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes in 160 carton boxes on board the truck. Three men aged 15, 18 and 55 were arrested and the truck was detained. Investigation is ongoing.

     Customs will continue to step up enforcement against illicit cigarette activities during the Christmas and New Year holidays to protect government revenue.

     ​Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

     Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.

Ends/Friday, December 16, 2016
Issued at HKT 12:35

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