Hong Kong Customs seized about 40 kilograms of suspected worked ivory with a market value of about $400,000 and arrested two incoming male passengers at Hong Kong International Airport today (October 9).
Customs officers intercepted two male passengers aged 40-year-old and 46-year-old at the airport this morning. The two men arrived at Hong Kong from Harare, Zimbabwe, via Dubai, United Arab Emirates. During Customs clearance, about 40 kilograms of suspected worked ivory concealed in two tailor-made vests were found inside their backpacks. The cases were 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 an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Sunday, October 9, 2016
