Hong Kong Customs today (June 10) seized about 10.5 kilograms(kg) of suspected rhino horns with an estimated market value of about $2.1 million at Hong Kong International Airport.

     Customs officers intercepted a 23-year-old male passenger at the airport this afternoon.  The man arrived in Hong Kong from Jakarta, Indonesia. During Customs clearance, about 10.5 kg of suspected rhino horns were found inside a black rucksack inside his check-in suitcase. The man was then arrested.

     The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

     Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $5 million and imprisonment for two years.

Ends/Saturday, June 10, 2017
Issued at HKT 22:19

NNNN