Customs reports decline in illegal cases

The Office of the Secretary for Security reported that ongoing enforcement efforts have contributed to a reduction in illegal activities across Macau.

From January 2024 to June 2025, Macau Customs recorded 13 cases seized at the source, involving goods valued at MOP 2.53 million.

During the same period, authorities handled 392 illegal cases citywide, leading to 436 prosecutions, with a total estimated value of MOP37.01 million.

At four major land ports – the Border Gate, Qingmao Port, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and Hengqin Port – Customs recorded 6,526 illegal cases involving 6,533 people.

Compared to the first half of 2024, cases at these four ports fell by 21.19%. Pedestrian-related cases decreased by 20.46%, while cross-border vehicle cases dropped 41.18%. Authorities said the reduction indicates more targeted enforcement at key smuggling channels.

Customs also works with neighboring regions through a liaison mechanism, sharing intelligence to support investigations and joint operations.

From January to June 2025, the agency reported 4,985 suspicious cases to mainland authorities to assist enforcement efforts.

In addition, ports have been equipped with non-invasive scanning equipment to detect concealed items. Big data analysis and automated risk management systems help classify high-risk individuals and goods.

Collaborating with the Public Security Police Force, 2,779 high-risk individuals were referred to Customs for inspection in the first half of 2025, improving the efficiency of inspections and interception operations. LV