XN000022-1995-06-16 — Page 16

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Reptiles seized from pet shop

The Agriculture and Fisheries Department (AFD) seized a total of 29 endangered reptiles from a Tuen Mun pet shop in an operation yesterday (Thursday).

Following a report from a member of the public and subsequent investigations, officers of AFD's Fauna Conservation Section raided a pet shop in Tuen Mun yesterday afternoon.

A total of 29 reptiles, including tortoises, iguanas and a chameleon, were seized.

The seized reptiles can fetch a market price of around $30,000.

AFD conservation officer Dr So Ping-man said follow-up investigations on the case were still continuing and prosecution would be initiated against the offender if there were sufficient evidence.

Dr So reiterated that any person importing, exporting or possessing any endangered species without a licence issued by the department would have violated the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance.

"Members of the public should check before purchasing any pet which they suspect to be an endangered species. In case of doubt, do not buy the suspected item and report it to AFD," he said.

Under the ordinance, any person found guilty of importing, exporting or possessing a highly endangered species item without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and one year's imprisonment. If it is used for a commercial purpose, the maximum fine will be a $5 million fine plus two years in jail.

He also reminded members of the public not to bring back endangered species, including their parts or derivatives, on their return from visits to other countries during the long weekend beginning tomorrow (Saturday) because the control measure also applied to travellers.

End/Friday, June 16, 1995