Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected illicit cigarettes

     Hong Kong Customs seized about 17 800 suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $48,000 and a duty potential of about $34,000 at Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point on July 21.

     Customs officers intercepted an incoming male passenger at Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point on July 21. Upon Customs clearance, Customs officers seized the batch of illicit cigarettes from a suitcase and a rucksack carried by him.

     The arrested man, aged 33, was charged with possession of dutiable goods and was sentenced to four months' imprisonment at Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (July 23).

     Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

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