Hong Kong Customs today (July 17) seized a total of about 100 kilograms of suspected pangolin scales with an estimated market value of about $500,000 at Hong Kong International Airport.
Customs officers intercepted two male passengers, aged 20 and 46, arriving in Hong Kong respectively from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Xiamen, China today. About 50 kilograms of suspected pangolin scales were found inside their suitcases respectively.
The cases have been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up action.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and an imprisonment for ten years.
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).
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