Customs Seize HK$20million Smuggling Haul

Customs officers say they have foiled an attempt to smuggle electronic goods worth some HK$20 million out of Hong Kong, in what is the largest sea smuggling case they have uncovered this year.

Officers said goods such as integrated circuits, hard disks and USB drives were seized in the operation in Tung Chung on Tuesday evening.

They took action after six suspected smugglers started offloading the goods from a seven-seater into a speed boat at Ma Wan Chung Pier.

The suspects quickly jumped into the vessel and fled towards mainland waters.

Acting commander Horace Pao said his officers gave chase, but failed to intercept them.

Pao said strong winds slowed the customs officers down, and construction work around the airport created many obstacles for them.

Officers said they couldn't be sure where the gang intended to take the goods, but electronic products on the mainland are taxed by up to 45 percent.