Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected illegally imported live birds (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs today (July 18) seized 123 suspected illegally imported live birds with an estimated market value of about $300 at Lo Wu Control Point.

     During Customs clearance for a 23-year-old incoming male passenger this afternoon, the batch of live birds was found in four bird cages inside two plastic bags he carried.

     The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for a follow-up investigation.

     Under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Regulations, it is an offence to import any bird unless it is accompanied by a valid health certificate. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $25,000.

     Members of the public may report any suspected activities of illegal importing of live birds to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).