Mainland traveller arrested with two live cats at Lo Wu
On.cc · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago1 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong customs officers arrested a 54-year-old mainland Chinese male traveller after finding two suspected illegally imported live cats in his personal luggage at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point on Monday. The two cats were estimated to have a total market value of about HK$20,000, and the case was later handed to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.
Key Points
- The case was detected by customs officers at the arrival hall of the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point on 11 August.
- Officers stopped and searched a 54-year-old mainland Chinese man entering Hong Kong and found two live cats in his personal luggage.
- The animals were suspected to have been brought into Hong Kong illegally, with an estimated combined market value of about HK$20,000.
- The traveller was arrested at the scene after the two suspected illegally imported cats were discovered during the baggage inspection.
- Customs said the case has been referred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for further investigation and follow-up action.
Why It Matters
Hong Kong requires a valid permit for the import of animals, and customs said bringing animals into the city without one is an offence. Under the Rabies Regulation, illegal import of animals, animal carcasses or animal products carries a maximum penalty of a HK$50,000 fine and one year in prison upon conviction.