Hong Kong Customs, working with the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department and mainland customs anti-smuggling authorities, intercepted a suspected smuggling speedboat off the north-western waters of Chek Lap Kok on September 8. Officers seized about five million untaxed cigarettes, estimated to be worth HK$22 million, and arrested two men on board.
The operation took place after officers spotted a suspicious speedboat travelling at high speed towards Sha Chau without navigation lights. They pursued the vessel and boarded it for inspection, according to the reports.
The cigarettes had an estimated dutiable value of HK$16.5 million. The two arrested men were reported by i-CABLE to be mainland men aged 30 and 36.
Star Headline reported that the speedboat was fitted with six outboard engines. It also described the vessel as the fastest smuggling boat successfully intercepted by Hong Kong Customs in nearly two years, and said the operation followed risk assessment and intelligence analysis.
The reports identify the boat as suspected of being used for smuggling, but do not confirm whether either man has been formally charged. The vessel’s registration, intended destination and the subsequent judicial progress also remain unclear.