Hong Kong Customs on May 7 detected a suspected case of using an ocean-going vessel to smuggle goods to Taiwan at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals. A large batch of unmanifested goods with an estimated market value of about $160 million was seized inside two containers.

     Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs discovered that criminals intended to use ocean-going vessels to smuggle goods and thus formulated strategies to combat related activities, and identified an ocean-going vessel preparing to depart from Hong Kong to Kaohsiung, Taiwan, for inspection. After examination, Customs officers found a large batch of unmanifested goods, including suspected scheduled dried shark fins and skins, suspected scheduled wood furniture, electronic components and electronic products, inside two containers on board the vessel.

     An investigation is ongoing and the likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

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

     Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a required licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years.
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     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) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Ends/Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Issued at HKT 16:30

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