Man sentenced for smuggling ivory
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A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said that some 26 kilograms of worked ivory was found in the check-in luggage of a 43-year-old man arriving at Hong Kong International Airport from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on January 7. He was charged with the illegal import of endangered species.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap 586), any person found guilty of importing, exporting, re-exporting or possessing any endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million, imprisonment for two years and mandatory forfeiture of the specimens.
To enquire about the importation of endangered species and to report illegal imports, the public can call AFCD on 1823 or visit the website, www.cites.hk.
Ends/Monday, January 9, 2017
Issued at HKT 16:30
Issued at HKT 16:30
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