Custom seize smuggled goods worth $75m bound for Macau in two river vessels

Customs officers intercepted two inland river vessels leaving Hong Kong for Macau on November 19 and 20, uncovering an estimated HK$75 million worth of smuggled items ranging from suspected pharmaceuticals and endangered species parts to dried seafood, cigars, and electronics.

The smuggled goods included suspected pharmaceutical products, endangered ray gill plates and plants, dried seafood, cigars, and electronic products. 

​The case is under investigation. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out. 

​Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of HK$2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

Moreover, under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person importing, exporting, or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offense and will be liable to a maximum fine of HK$10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction, with the specimens forfeited.

Customs pledged to maintain high-pressure enforcement through intelligence-led operations and risk profiling to disrupt maritime smuggling routes. 

Members of the public with information are urged to contact the 24-hour hotline 182 8080, email its dedicated crime-reporting email account, or submit an online form.