The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and the Police mounted a joint operation and seized a batch of illegally kept live chickens and quails in Hung Shui Kiu, Yuen Long today (January 10).

     The AFCD received a report earlier about poultry being illegally kept in Tin Sum Tsuen. Subsequent to its investigations, 53 live chickens and 2 699 live quails were found being kept illegally by a man in three structures at a premises there.

     Follow-up investigations will continue. After taking samples for testing, the AFCD has disposed of all the poultry seized.

     An AFCD spokesman said that in Hong Kong the keeping of livestock and connected activities are regulated under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance. Poultry farms must hold a valid licence for keeping livestock. Any person who contravenes the ordinance is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000. Repeat offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000.

     The spokesman warned that people face prosecution if they keep poultry illegally. Suspected cases of illegal keeping of poultry should be reported to 1823.

     The spokesman also reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds, live poultry and their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Ends/Wednesday, January 10, 2018
Issued at HKT 20:50

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