Customs Department in Hong Kong today (November 9) conducted a risk assessment check at Shenzhen Bay Port and intercepted a truck crossing the border. Authorities found six live endangered turtle species inside a cargo truck, concealed within socks mixed with clothes in a cardboard box. The turtles have been handed over to the Department of Fishery and Aquatic Guardian for further investigation. Under the Wildlife Protection (Enforcement) Regulation, any individual involved in importing, exporting, or possessing endangered species without complying with the regulation is committing an offense, which can be punished by a maximum fine of HKD 10 million and ten years of imprisonment, and the involved items will be confiscated. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious smuggling activities by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline at 182 8080, or by using the dedicated online reporting email account ([email protected]), or through an online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
According to the information provided by the Customs Department, the interception of the turtles occurred as part of a regular risk assessment and border checks. The turtles, believed to be included in the CITES list of endangered species, were discovered inside a cargo truck crossing from the mainland. This incident highlights ongoing efforts by customs authorities to combat the smuggling of endangered wildlife. Such acts not only pose a threat to biodiversity but also contravene the legal framework designed to protect these species.
Hong Kong's Customs Department is emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in reporting potential violations. The authorities have outlined multiple avenues for citizens to voice their concerns, ranging from direct telephone lines to online submission forms. This approach underscores the commitment of authorities to maintaining a vigilant and responsive system to handle such cases. The serious penalties associated with such offenses serve as a deterrent to those who might consider engaging in wildlife smuggling.