An anti-smuggling operation by the Hong Kong police, and Customs and Excise officers resulted in the seizure of 28 puppies and kittens, the discovery of an alleged smuggler’s body, and the arrest of a second alleged smuggler.

On Friday 6th August 2021, a speedboat carrying two men was spotted off Black Point in Tuen Mun. It fled at high speed when police pursuit crafts were deployed for interception. Approximately 10 minutes into the chase, one of the men fell into the water; it was unclear whether he jumped into the sea to avoid arrest. A body was found the next morning, matching the description and clothing of the missing mainland Chinese man.

The speedboat was subsequently intercepted, carrying the second alleged smuggler, 15 puppies and 13 kittens inside 8 cages, and HK $720,000 worth of contraband cigarettes. Sources note “all the animals were expensive breeds, including poodles and Pomeranians. We believe they could be sold for as much as HK$10,000 each in the city.” The man in the speedboat was arrested for, inter alia, animal cruelty. The animals were transferred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.

Although cases involving the smuggling of puppies and kittens is still rare in Hong Kong, police sources noted that it was an expanding business following the pandemic. Within the last 12 months, there have been at least two cases of known animal smuggling by boat.

Courtesy of Audrey O’Young

Main Source: SCMP