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Hong Kong Customs yesterday (September 24) smashed a suspected case of smartphone smuggling by a 7-seat private car at Shenzhen Bay Control Point. A total of 238 new smartphones comprising 175 models of the iPhone 5s, 60 models of the iPhone 5 and three of the latest model of iPhone 6 Plus, with a total value of about $1 million, were seized.
Customs officers intercepted an outgoing 7-seat private car for inspection at Shenzhen Bay Control Point yesterday afternoon. Upon inspection, the smartphones were found concealed under the driver's seat and inside the dashboard of the vehicle. The 40-year-old driver was arrested and put on bail pending investigation. The private car was seized for further examination.
Under the Import and Export Ordinance, the maximum penalty for attempting to export unmanifested cargo is a fine of $2 million and seven years' imprisonment.
Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.
Ends/Thursday, September 25, 2014
Issued at HKT 15:46
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