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Hong Kong Customs seized about 24 kilograms of suspected smuggled bird's nests and 43 kilograms of scheduled fish maw, valued at approximately $5.2 million, from a private car at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port on February 20.
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The operation began when Customs, based on a risk assessment, intercepted an outbound Tesla at the port.
Modifications to the vehicle included a smaller front luggage compartment with loose screws, custom metal brackets and longer screws around the battery area, suggesting alterations made to hide contraband.
A 53-year-old male driver was arrested in connection with the case and has since been released on bail pending further investigation. The structurally altered vehicle was also detained.
Further inquiries revealed that the car was owned by a shell company with no actual business activities in Hong Kong. The case has been transferred to the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau for deeper investigation.
Customs noted that the smugglers chose a peak traffic period for their operation, likely to use the heavy traffic as cover.
This incident is notable as smugglers typically use seven-seater vehicles, making the use of a Tesla for smuggling quite unusual.
It is believed that heavy machinery was used to modify the car, including removing the entire battery pack and placing a heat-insulating pad above it to protect the smuggled items from the battery's heat during transit.
The seized fish maw will be handed over to the Fisheries Protection Department for testing to determine if they are protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance.
