Hong Kong Customs mounted an anti-smuggling operation in the New Territories on July 27 and smashed a syndicate suspected of smuggling computer central processing units (CPUs). A large amount of CPUs was seized, with an estimated value of about $10.5 million.

     Customs intercepted an outbound lorry at Lok Ma Chau Control Point in the evening.  Upon examination, a batch of CPUs was found in the false compartment of the axle of the lorry. Later, Customs officers searched a cargo yard and two factory units in Tuen Mun where more CPUs and a bulk of packing tools and materials were seized.

     Customs seized a total of 5 864 CPUs with a value of about $10.5 million during the operation. Four men aged from 50 to 59 were arrested, including suspected core members of the syndicate. Two vehicles and two trailers suspected of use in smuggling were detained. The case is still under investigation.

     Under the Import and Export Ordinance, smuggling is a serious offence. Any person found guilty of exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

Ends/Friday, July 29, 2016
Issued at HKT 16:00

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