42 Endangered Lizards Worth $210K Seized at Hong Kong Airport

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Hong Kong Customs intercepted 42 endangered live lizards at Hong Kong International Airport on March 4, 2025.

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The reptiles, valued at HK$210,000 (USD 27,000), were hidden inside a shipment declared as dehumidifiers, air purifiers, and milk powder cans.

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The case has been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) for further investigation.

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Hong Kong has seen multiple wildlife trafficking incidents, including seizures of protected plants and animal species last year.

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Violating the Protection of Endangered Species Ordinance can lead to a HK$10 million fine and up to 10 years in prison.

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Hong Kong’s role as a global transport hub makes it vulnerable to wildlife smuggling despite strict enforcement.

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Wildlife trafficking threatens biodiversity and can lead to species extinction, causing long-term ecological damage.

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Previous cases include the April 2024 seizure of 63 endangered turtles and a 15-month prison sentence for a Malaysian smuggler.

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Authorities urge public cooperation, maintaining a 24-hour hotline (182 8080) for reporting smuggling activities.

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