Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected rhino horn cut pieces (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs yesterday (June 17) seized about 3.1 kilograms of suspected rhino horn cut pieces with an estimated market value of about $620,000 at Hong Kong International Airport.

     Customs officers intercepted a 21-year-old male passenger at the airport yesterday evening. He arrived in Hong Kong from Beira, Mozambique via Johannesburg, South Africa and Doha, Qatar. 

     During Customs clearance, the batch of suspected rhino horn cut pieces was found inside a black plastic bag in his check-in suitcase. The man was then arrested.

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

     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).