Cockroaches, frozen rats among 118kg of pests, pet food seized in Hong Kong

Customs officials in Hong Kong intercepted an 118kg shipment of pests, including cockroaches, frozen domestic rats, and mealworms, during a routine inspection at a border checkpoint, according to a report on Friday. The Customs and Excise Department disclosed that the haul, which also comprised moth larvae and fruit flies mixed with declared goods, was discovered inside a goods vehicle at the Man Kam To control point the previous day.

The shipment, estimated to have a market value of approximately HK$35,000 (US$4,460), was suspected to consist of live plant pests and frozen pet food. A 40-year-old local male driver was apprehended at the scene, and authorities emphasized that an ongoing investigation is underway. The seized items have been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for further scrutiny.

Under Hong Kong's Import and Export Ordinance, individuals found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo may face a maximum fine of HK$2 million and a seven-year prison sentence. Meanwhile, the Rabies Regulation mandates a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and a one-year imprisonment for those convicted of illegally importing animals, carcasses, or animal products.

The Plant (Importation and Pest Control) Ordinance imposes a maximum penalty of six months' imprisonment and a HK$10,000 fine for the unauthorized importation of plant pests.