Mainland traveller arrested over two live cats at Lo Wu
RTHK · 4 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago1 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Customs said it uncovered a suspected illegal animal import case at Lo Wu Control Point after officers found two live cats in a mainland visitor’s luggage. The 44-year-old man was arrested on arrival, and the cats were estimated to have a market value of about HK$2,000.
Key Points
- Customs officers intercepted a 44-year-old mainland male traveller in the arrival hall at Lo Wu Control Point on 23 August.
- A search of his personal luggage uncovered two live cats suspected to have been brought into Hong Kong illegally.
- The two cats were estimated to be worth about HK$2,000, according to Customs’ preliminary assessment.
- The traveller was arrested immediately after the animals were found inside his baggage at the border checkpoint.
- The case has been handed to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation and handling.
Why It Matters
The case points to continued enforcement at land boundary crossings over the movement of live animals into Hong Kong without the required permits. Customs also reminded the public that importing animals without a valid permit is an offence under the Rabies Regulation, which carries a maximum penalty of a HK$50,000 fine and one year in prison upon conviction