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Sixteen travellers were convicted at the Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Courts today (July 24) of smuggling ivory tusks and semi-processed ivory products. They were sentenced to six months' imprisonment.
Customs officers seized a total of 790 kilograms of raw ivory tusks and semi-processed ivory products at the Hong Kong International Airport on June 10. The items were found inside 32 pieces of luggage of the 16 offenders, who were travelling from Angola, Africa, to Cambodia.
The case was referred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for follow-up action. The 16 travellers, comprising 10 men and six women aged between 20 and 54, were prosecuted and convicted at the Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Courts today (July 24).
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), any person found guilty of importing, exporting, re-exporting or possessing any endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million, imprisonment for two years and mandatory forfeiture of the specimens. The public are reminded to comply with the regulations and not to buy specimens of endangered species from dubious sources.
To enquire about the importation of endangered species and to report illegal imports, the public can call 1823 or visit the website, www.cites.hk.
Ends/Thursday, July 24, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:08
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