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A man convicted at the Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Courts today (September 30) of smuggling cut ivory was sentenced to two months' imprisonment.
A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said that a total of some 16 kilograms of cut ivory was seized by Customs officers from the check-in and hand luggage of a 26-year-old man arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport from Abuja, Nigeria, via Dubai, United Arab Emirates yesterday (September 29). Subsequent to investigations, the AFCD laid charge against the man for illegal import of endangered species.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), import, export, re-export or possession of any endangered species requires a licence issued from the AFCD in advance. 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 AFCD on 1823 or visit the website, www.cites.hk.
Ends/Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Issued at HKT 21:24
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