- Upon opening container for inspection, officers found several bags of dried shark fins, suspected to be from endangered species
- The haul, with an estimated market value of HK$110,000, was reportedly meant for local consumption
Hong Kong customs officers have confiscated 392kg of suspected controlled shark fins arriving in the city from Morocco in a shipping container.
A law enforcement source said the haul, with an estimated market value of HK$110,000 (US$14,187), was meant for local consumption.
The consignment, declared as dried seafood, arrived in Hong Kong last week and was selected for a routine inspection, according to the Customs and Excise Department.
When the container was opened at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound on Tuesday, officers found several bags of dried shark fins, suspected to be from endangered species.
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"The haul was mingled with about 70 bags of non-controlled shark fins," the source said.
No arrests have been made and an investigation is under way. The case has been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, import and export of an endangered species or its parts without a licence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail and a HK$10 million fine.
A customs department spokesman appealed to the public to report any suspected smuggling activity on its 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or email: crimereport@customs.gov.hk
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