Recently, the Hong Kong Customs of China cracked a case suspected of smuggling by inland waterway vessels and seized a large quantity of suspected smuggled goods, with an estimated total market value of approximately 28 million yuan.

Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, the customs authorities discovered that the lawbreakers suspected of smuggling goods to Macao by inland waterway vessels. They then deployed strategies to crack down on the relevant activities.

During the operation, customs officers randomly inspected an inland waterway vessel traveling from Hong Kong to Macao on the same day and seized a large number of suspected smuggled goods, including electronic components, beauty injections, alternative smoking products, suspected untaxed tobacco products, suspected controlled dried shark fins and expensive food ingredients.

At present, the case is still under investigation.

Smuggling is a serious crime. According to the Import and Export Ordinance, anyone who imports or exports goods without a manifest, upon conviction, may be fined up to two million dollars and imprisoned for up to seven years.

In addition, according to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), it is illegal for anyone to import, export or possess endangered species without complying with the provisions of the Ordinance. Upon conviction, the offender may be fined up to 10 million Hong Kong dollars and imprisoned for up to ten years, and the relevant items will also be confiscated.