Second live-cat smuggling case found at border
On.cc · 6 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong customs officers reported a second suspected illegal animal import case within two days, after intercepting two live cats at Heung Yuen Wai Control Point on 23 September. The latest arrest involved a 66-year-old local male traveller whose personal luggage was found to contain the animals, with an estimated total value of about HK$3,500. The case followed an earlier interception at Man Kam To Control Point on 22 September, where a 33-year-old mainland male traveller was arrested after a live cat worth about HK$3,000 was found in his luggage. Both cases were referred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up.
Key Points
- Customs officers stopped a 66-year-old local male traveller in the arrival hall at Heung Yuen Wai Control Point on 23 September.
- A search of his personal luggage uncovered two suspected illegally imported live cats with a combined estimated value of about HK$3,500.
- The man was arrested immediately, and customs said the case had been transferred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.
- On 22 September, officers at Man Kam To Control Point intercepted a 33-year-old mainland male traveller carrying one live cat in personal luggage.
- That earlier cat was estimated to be worth about HK$3,000, and customs said illegal animal import can carry a HK$50,000 fine and one year in prison.
Why It Matters
The back-to-back interceptions at two land boundary control points suggest enforcement agencies are watching closely for attempts to bring live animals into Hong Kong without permits. For travellers, the cases are a reminder that animal import rules are enforced at the border and can lead to arrest and prosecution, with follow-up handled by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.