​Hong Kong Customs today (January 17) seized about 260 000 suspected illicit cigarettes, with an estimated market value of about $700,000 and a duty potential of about $500,000, at Yau Ma Tei.

     During an anti-illicit cigarette operation at Yau Ma Tei today, Customs officers intercepted a man unloading some carton boxes from a van into a shop and found about 2 400 suspected illicit cigarettes inside the carton boxes. Customs officers further seized about 258 000 suspected illicit cigarettes inside the shop. A 59-year-old man was arrested and the van involved in the case was detained for further investigation. Investigation is ongoing.

     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/Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Issued at HKT 17:03

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