Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected smuggled goods (with photo)

     Hong Kong Customs seized a batch of suspected smuggled goods, including about 176 kilograms of frozen beef, about 38kg of bird nest, about 3kg of fish maw and five cartons of cosmetics with an estimated market value of about $1.8 million at Man Kam To Control Point on October 13.

     Customs officers intercepted an outgoing private car at Man Kam To Control Point on October 13 and found the batch of suspected smuggled goods on board the vehicle. The 47-year-old male driver and the 18-year-old female passenger were arrested.

     After follow-up investigation, Customs officers further arrested a 41-year-old woman suspected to be involved in the case on the same day.

     Investigation is ongoing and the arrested persons have been released on bail pending further investigation.

     Smuggling is a serious offence. 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.

     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).