Mastermind and members of smuggling syndicate jailed for conspiracy to smuggle
******************************************************************************
Hong Kong Customs and the Marine Police conducted a joint-operation in April last year and detected a suspected smuggling case using speedboats in Lau Fau Shan. A total of 11 014 smartphones and 168 tablets were seized. After follow-up investigation, Customs officers further seized a large amount of packing materials in an industrial building unit in Tuen Mun. The estimated market value of the seizure in the operation was about $9 million.
Customs welcomes the verdict. The sentences have a strong deterrent effect on sea smuggling activities and the case is significant in the context of Customs enforcement against smuggling syndicates.
Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the IEO, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, March 22, 2019
Issued at HKT 18:25
Issued at HKT 18:25
NNNN