Hong Kong Customs yesterday (26th) seized about 14.4 kilograms of suspected controlled totou maw at the Hong Kong International Airport, with an estimated market value of about 3.2 million yuan.
Through a risk assessment yesterday, the customs inspected an air cargo that was transferred from Mexico to Vietnam via Hong Kong and reported to contain dried fish fillets.
After inspection, the customs officers found the suspected controlled Gulf of California tote maw mixed with other uncontrolled dried fish fillets in two cartons.
The case is still under investigation.
According to the "Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance", anyone who illegally imports and exports endangered species is liable to a fine of up to 10 million yuan and imprisonment for ten years upon conviction.
With the recent decline in air passengers, the customs will continue to step up efforts to combat the trafficking of prohibited and controlled items through air cargo, postal and express channels.
The public can call the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182, or report suspected smuggling activities through the dedicated email account for crime reporting (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
01News