Hong Kong Customs, in collaboration with the Anti-Smuggling Bureau of Shenzhen Customs, has mounted an operation against the smuggling of animals, codenamed “Pet Guardian” since November 2023. The fifth phase of the operation began in mid-September this year, during which two suspected cases of illegal animal imports were uncovered. A total of six animals, with an estimated market value of about HK$20,000, were seized.
The first case occurred on September 15, 2025, when Customs officers at Sha Tau Kok observed a 56-year-old woman pushing a bike entering Hong Kong via the Chung Ying Street Checkpoint. Upon inspection, officers discovered a cat inside a pet cage in the front basket of the bike and a dog concealed in the woman’s bag. She was arrested on the spot.
In the second case, on September 17, 2025, Customs officers, acting on intelligence analysis, intercepted a 61-year-old woman entering Hong Kong from Chung Ying Street with a bike. A search revealed four suspected illegally imported cats hidden inside a nylon bag placed in the rear basket of the bike. She was immediately arrested.
All six animals have been transferred to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up action, and investigations into both cases remain ongoing.
Hong Kong Customs emphasised that it will continue strengthening co-operation and intelligence exchanges with other law enforcement agencies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations to disrupt relevant crimes.
The department also reminded the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence. Under the Rabies Regulation, offenders face a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and imprisonment for one year upon conviction.