Hong Kong Customs seized eight live lizards, in which seven were suspected to be scheduled endangered species, and 24 live snakes with a total estimated market value of about $600,000 at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (March 16).

     Through risk assessment, Customs officers yesterday inspected an air consignment declared to contain clothing imported from Australia. Upon inspection, Customs officers discovered the batch of live lizards and live snakes concealed inside cloth bags from snack cans.

     The case was handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for follow-up action.

     Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction with the specimens forfeited.

     Hong Kong Customs reminds the public that the import of animals, birds and reptiles is controlled under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance (Cap. 139) and Rabies Ordinance (Cap. 421). These animals should not be brought into Hong Kong unless a permit is obtained in advance from the AFCD.

     Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Ends/Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Issued at HKT 19:20

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