16 arrested by customs for smuggling activity

A total of 16 men and women were arrested last week for suspected smuggling within an industrial building in the northern district, according to the customs authority.

The customs authority and Public Security Police (PSP) jointly inspected one industrial building located at north district last week, where smuggling activity was suspected of taking place.

Both sides of law enforcement took action and entered the target unit immediately. 

A total of 16 people were intercepted and accused of engaging in smuggling activity, with about 500 kilograms of frozen ingredient (omasum) found, with a value of around MOP110,000.

The concerned good, purchased in Macau, was disinfected by customs to reduce the risk of virus transmission.

The supects (14 men and two women) were local and mainland residents.  

Customs said that all 16 people were charged with violations of the Foreign Trade Law, by which a maximum fine of MOP50,000 can be imposed. The goods have been seized by the government. 

Among the 14, 10 smugglers were charged with violation of the law on the employment of non-resident workers and transferred to the Labour Affairs Bureau for follow-up. 

Due to the concern that the unit did not possess an available operation license, the matter was referred to the Financial Services Bureau. Staff Reporter