Hong Kong customs authorities have seized 4.2 tonnes of dried shark skin, originating from endangered species in a shipment from Thailand.
The discovery, valued at HK$1.7 million (US$217,554), led to the arrest of a local company director. Superintendent Jason Lau Yuk-lung of the customs’ syndicate crimes investigation bureau stated that it was the largest seizure of such protected products in recent years.
The shipment, declared as dried shark skin, arrived in Hong Kong from Thailand and was inspected to verify its source and import permit status.
Samples confirmed it was from protected spinner sharks without the necessary permit. The company director, a 68-year-old man, was arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
Importing or possessing endangered species without a permit in Hong Kong carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail and a HK$10 million fine.
