Mainland man arrested over live cat at Lok Ma Chau
Bastillepost · 5 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Customs said it uncovered a suspected illegal animal import case at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point on Sunday after officers stopped an inbound traveller and found a live cat in his luggage. The 61-year-old mainland Chinese man was arrested, and the case was referred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up.
Key Points
- Customs officers intercepted a 61-year-old male mainland traveller in the arrivals hall of Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point on September 13.
- During an inspection of his personal luggage, officers found one live cat suspected of being brought into Hong Kong illegally.
- The seized cat was estimated to have a market value of about HK$25,000, according to Customs statements carried by multiple outlets.
- The traveller was arrested after the discovery, and the case was transferred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up action.
- Customs reminded the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence under the Rabies Regulation.
Why It Matters
The case underlines that animals carried in personal baggage are still subject to Hong Kong's import permit and quarantine controls. Under the Rabies Regulation, illegal import of animals, animal carcasses or animal products carries a maximum penalty of a HK$50,000 fine and one year in prison upon conviction.