Hong Kong Customs seized about 1 910 kilograms of suspected scheduled red sandalwood, with an estimated market value of about $9.57 million, at Hong Kong International Airport on September 30.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers on that day inspected an air consignment, declared to be carrying red sandalwood, arriving in Hong Kong from India. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the suspected scheduled red sandalwood being put on six pallets.
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 Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
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