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Hong Kong Customs detects another suspected case of smuggling illicit cigarettes in cross-boundary private car (with photo)
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     Hong Kong Customs detected another suspected case of using a cross-boundary private car to smuggle illicit cigarettes yesterday (November 11), with a seizure of about 110 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes. Customs earlier detected two similar cases on September 23 and November 4.

     Customs identified a syndicate using a cross-boundary private car to smuggle illicit cigarettes and distribute them to peddlers speedily. Customs officers took enforcement action last night and intercepted the cross-boundary private car in Sha Tin. A total of about 110 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were found on the vehicle. The total market value of the cigarettes was about $310,000 with a duty potential of about $210,000. A 33-year-old male driver was arrested and the cross-boundary private car used in the suspected smuggling of illicit cigarettes was detained. Investigation is ongoing.

     Hong Kong Customs will closely monitor illicit cigarette smuggling activities using cross-boundary private cars and continue to carry out stringent enforcement action against illicit cigarette activities.

     Under the Import and Export Ordinance, smuggling is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

     Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

     Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.

Ends/Thursday, November 12, 2015
Issued at HKT 16:17

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