HONG KONG: Hong Kong Customs seized parcels with smuggled horns weighing 6.71 kilograms at the Hong Kong International Airport on Monday, with an estimated value of about HK$1.34 million (US$172,000), it said here the other day.
Customs officers identified the suspect express parcels at a freight delivery center. The pieces arrived on different flights Sunday and Monday from Pemba, Mozambique, to Hong Kong via Johannesburg, South Africa.
Upon examination, Customs officers found 10 slabs mingled with wood products in the parcels. The 10 slabs were suspected to be cut from two whole rhino horns.
The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up action. Hong Kong Customs will continue to work with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department to deter the trafficking of endangered species.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance in Hong Kong, any person found guilty of trading in endangered species for commercial purposes is liable to a maximum fine of HK$5 million (US$645,000) and imprisonment for two years.
