Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected pangolin scales (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs today (July 20) seized about 7 100 kilograms of suspected pangolin scales with an estimated market value of about $3.55 million from a container at the Tsing Yi Cargo Examination Compound.

     Through risk assessment, Customs officers inspected a 40-foot container declared to contain plastic materials arriving in Hong Kong from Nigeria. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the suspected pangolin scales in the container.

     Investigation is ongoing.

     Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

     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 imprisonment for 10 years.

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