Elderly woman jailed for carrying untaxed cigarettes at Hong Kong border
A 72-year-old woman was sentenced to prison after customs officers found 961 untaxed cigarettes on her at the Lok Ma Chau control point. The cigarettes had an estimated market value of HK$4,800 and a duty value of HK$3,100.
Hong Kong customs officers intercepted a 72-year-old female Hong Kong resident arriving at the Lok Ma Chau control point on 10 October. A search revealed she was carrying 961 untaxed cigarettes, with an estimated market value of about HK$4,800 and a duty value of about HK$3,100. She was arrested at the scene.
The woman has been convicted and sentenced to imprisonment. Customs welcomed the sentence, stating it serves as a strong deterrent and reflects the seriousness of the offence. They urged the public not to break the law.
Under Hong Kong's relevant ordinance, cigarettes are dutiable goods. Anyone who imports, handles, possesses, sells or purchases illicit cigarettes commits an offence. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty is a fine of HK$2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Customs reminded the public that they can report suspected illicit cigarette activities via the department's 24-hour hotline 182 8080, the dedicated email account [email protected], or the online form at eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002.
