Photo shows some of suspected smuggled goods with an estimated market value of about HK$160 million that were seized on April 21, 2022. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)
HONG KONG – Hong Kong Customs foiled an attempt to smuggle goods worth HK$160 million ($20.39 million) using a river trade vessel on April 21.
Customs said in a statement that the suspected smuggled goods included assorted electronic products, musical instrument accessories and audio equipment.
Customs said in a statement that suspected smuggled goods that were seized included assorted electronic products, musical instrument accessories and audio equipment
Customs officers intercepted the vessel on the evening of April 21 in the western waters of Hong Kong as it was heading towards mainland waters.
ALSO READ: Hong Kong Customs seizes illegal drugs worth HK$400m
After inspection, the officers found the suspected smuggled goods, including solid-state drives, integrated circuits, memory cards, musical instrument accessories and audio equipment in three containers.
The officers conducted a follow-up investigation and arrested the next day a 69-year-old woman suspected to be connected with the case. An investigation is ongoing.
The arrested woman has been released on bail pending further investigation, and further arrests are not ruled out, according to the statement.
With the pandemic gradually subsiding and sea freight resuming normal operations, Customs said it has noticed that criminals have taken the opportunity to use river trade vessels to conduct smuggling activities.
READ MORE: HK customs foils city's biggest smuggling case on record
Customs stressed that it will keep up its enforcement actions and will continue to fiercely combat sea smuggling activities.
Photo shows some of suspected smuggled goods, with an estimated market value of about HK$160 million, that were seized on April 21, 2022. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)