Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected totoaba fish maws (with photos)

     Hong Kong Customs seized about 1.9 kilograms of suspected Totoaba macdonaldi fish maws with an estimated market value of about $300,000 at Hong Kong International Airport on September 22.

     Customs officers inspected an express parcel from Los Angeles, the United States, on September 22 and found the suspected Totoaba macdonaldi fish maws contained inside.

     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).