Customs seize HK$140m of goods suspected to have been smuggled

The Customs and Excise Department has seized goods suspected of being smuggled, with an estimated market value of about HK$140 million, from 13 containers bound for Australia from Hong Kong. The haul included about 14 million suspected illicit cigarettes and about 7,400kg of suspected duty-unpaid manufactured tobacco, along with electronic products and vehicle parts.

The containers were among five suspected smuggling cases detected in September involving the suspected use of ocean-going vessels. Following intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs targeted the shipments for inspection. They were reported to contain household goods including storage boxes, pillows, towels, sofas and mattresses, but inspections found suspected contraband in the containers.

The investigation was continuing, and the department said arrests could not be ruled out.