Hong Kong customs seize turtles, parrots in two cases
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong customs officers uncovered two separate suspected animal smuggling cases involving endangered species, one at Hong Kong International Airport and another at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line control point. In the second case, a 21-year-old mainland Chinese woman was arrested after officers found multiple live animals, including two parrots suspected to be endangered species, in her belongings and clothing pocket.
Key Points
- Customs said 17 live turtles were found in a package from the United States that had been declared as containing a jacket at Hong Kong International Airport.
- Officers said the turtles, suspected to be scheduled endangered species, were concealed inside socks and had an estimated market value of about HK$102,000.
- In a separate case on Friday, officers intercepted a 21-year-old mainland Chinese woman at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line control point.
- A search uncovered a rabbit, hamster, guinea pig, sugar glider and two parrots suspected to be endangered species in a paper bag and trouser pocket.
- Customs estimated the animals in the second case were worth about HK$7,800, and said both cases were handed to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.
Why It Matters
Hong Kong law provides for penalties of up to HK$10 million and 10 years' imprisonment for unlawful import, export or possession of endangered animals. Separate offences involving illegal animal imports can also bring a maximum HK$50,000 fine and one year in jail, while birds must be accompanied by a valid health certificate.