Hong Kong Customs detected three smuggling cases involving scheduled wood logs at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound between June 30 and July 16. A total of about 142 tonnes of suspected scheduled wood logs of endangered species, with an estimated market value of about $1.2 million in total, were seized.

     Through risk assessment, Customs officers selected five containers that arrived in Hong Kong from Ghana and Cameroon for inspection during the above-mentioned period. Upon inspection, about 142 tonnes of suspected scheduled wood logs in three batches were found inside the containers.

     The three cases were handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

     Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 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/Monday, July 27, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:24

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