Hong Kong Customs mounts operation to combat illicit cigarettes (with photo)
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On January 3, Customs officers intercepted a private car suspected of distributing illicit cigarettes in Tai Po. About 58 000 suspected illicit cigarettes were found in the vehicle. A 37-year-old male driver was arrested. On January 4, Customs officers intercepted an incoming lorry declared as containing assorted cargoes at Man Kam To Control Point. Upon inspection, about 2.9 million suspected illicit cigarettes were found in 173 carton boxes. A 41-year-old male driver was arrested. Later on the same day, Customs officers intercepted a lorry in Kwai Chung and found about 800 000 suspected illicit cigarettes in 59 carton boxes. A 33-year old man was arrested. Three vehicles involved in the cases were seized.
Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
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/Thursday, January 5, 2017
Issued at HKT 16:30
Issued at HKT 16:30
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