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Hong Kong Customs today (November 6) reminded members of the public not to buy or sell illicit cigarettes, otherwise they would contravene the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance.
Customs recently took over a case of smashing a suspected illicit cigarette storehouse at Ta Kwu Ling from the Police for follow-up investigation. About 974 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes, with a market value of about $2.61 million and duty potential of about $1.86 million, were involved. A 46-year-old man and a 46-year-old woman were arrested and have been released on bail pending further investigation.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possessing, selling and buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty on conviction is imprisonment for two years and a fine of $1 million.
Customs will continue to undertake stringent enforcement against illicit cigarette activities to protect government revenue.
Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities using Customs' 24-hour hotline: 2545 6182.
Ends/Friday, November 6, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:46
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