*******************************************************
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) mounted a joint operation with the Customs and Excise Department against illegal import of endangered species at the Air Mail Centre of Hong Kong International Airport last week.
An AFCD spokesman today (December 14) said that, with the assistance of a quarantine detector dog, a batch of dried seahorses weighing about 9 kilograms was found in an airmail parcel without any relevant permits attached at night on December 11. The dried seahorses were seized by the AFCD and an investigation is under way.
Seahorses are listed in Appendix II to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, and are regulated under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap 586).
The import, export, re-export or possession of specimens of Appendix II species not in accordance with the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance is an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for one year. The specimens will also be forfeited upon conviction.
The spokesman reminded the public to comply with the regulations and not to buy, import or export specimens or products of endangered species from dubious sources. To enquire about the control of endangered species and to report suspected irregularities, the public can call 1823.
The AFCD's Quarantine Detector Dog Team was established in 2008 to strengthen the efforts in combating the illegal importation of animals and animal products, including endangered species. Trained detector dogs are deployed at the control points.
Ends/Monday, December 14, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:50
NNNN
