Hong Kong Customs seized about 7.100 kilograms of suspected pangolin scales on July 20. The pangolins are estimated to have a market value of about $3.55 million and were seized from a container at the Tsing Yi Cargo Examination Compound.
After conducting risk assessment, Hong Kong Customs officers inspected a 40-foot container which had plastic materials arriving in Hong Kong from Nigeria. Following an inspection, Customs officers found the suspected pangolin scales in the container.
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Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unreported cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years.
The investigation is currently under way.
