The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department joined the police yesterday (17th) to crack down on the sale of endangered species online. Two men suspected of illegally selling endangered tortoises online were arrested and 31 endangered tortoises of different species were seized.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department alleged that the two persons involved in the case were quite active, claiming on the Internet that they would hunt down local wild animals for resale, and also sell a variety of local and overseas endangered species.
The department seized 31 endangered tortoises of different species and a batch of hunting tools.
(Photo by Yang Jialang)
AFCD's Endangered Species Conservation Officer (Operations) Low Tequan said that after receiving relevant information, the AFCD launched an investigation. After obtaining the information on the persons involved, it joined the police yesterday to raid the target's premises and vehicles and found 21 animals. Live turtles and 10 dead turtles, including 6 large-headed turtles, 9 golden turtles (three-line box turtles), 3 eye-spotted terrapins, 2 yellow-margined box turtles and 1 Shanrui, and a group of hunting turtles were also found tool.
Low Tequan pointed out that the seized turtles are all listed as endangered or critically endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, and are also listed in Appendix I or II of the International Convention on Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Under the Species Ordinance, any person who illegally possesses an endangered species is a serious offence and can be sentenced to a maximum of 10 years in prison and a fine of 10 million upon conviction.
Low said there was reason to believe that some of the turtles seized were locally caught.
(Photo by Yang Jialang)
Low Tequan pointed out that the premises of the arrested persons were no different from ordinary residences. When he arrived at the scene, it was suspected that someone had planned to remove the evidence, so the breeding environment seen at the scene may not be the usual situation.
Liu also pointed out that there are reasons to believe that some of the turtles seized were locally caught, and some of the turtles were overseas species, including species from Africa or Southeast Asia.
The Animal Management Officer (Enforcement) of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Chen Jindong, pointed out that the large-headed turtles, golden turtles and eye-spotted terrapins seized in the case were native species of Hong Kong. Involving illegal hunting and possession of protected wild animals.
Partial seizure of hunting tools.
(Photo by Yang Jialang)
An AFCD spokesman said that the Government is committed to combating illegal wildlife hunting and trade in order to protect local wild species and endangered species.
The AFCD will remain vigilant, continue to monitor relevant information on different platforms and social media, and take active enforcement actions to combat the illegal trade in endangered species.
If you suspect the illegal sale of endangered species, the AFCD encourages the public to report to 2150 6978 or email to espint@afcd.gov.hk.
