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Hong Kong Customs detected 7 015 pieces of suspected endangered species wood logs, Malagasy Rosewood, upon inspection on incoming cargo from Tanzania on October 8. The total value of the seizure was about $40 million.
Customs officers conducted vessel search and cargo examination on a vessel arriving from Tanzania and found the wood logs of suspected endangered species.
The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for follow-up investigation.
Hong Kong Customs will continue to closely cooperate with the AFCD to combat cross-boundary smuggling of endangered species.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Monday, October 12, 2015
Issued at HKT 19:50
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