More than seven tonnes of suspected pangolin scales uncovered at Hong Kong container terminal
Haul, thought to be worth about HK$4.6 million, found inside shipping container from Nigeria
Hong Kong customs officers uncovered more than seven tonnes of scales believed to have come from endangered pangolins in a shipping container that arrived from Africa, the government said on Tuesday.
The 7,200kg haul – one of the biggest seizures of its kind in recent Hong Kong history – had an estimated market value of about HK$4.6 million, according to the Customs and Excise Department.
The scales were believed to have come from thousands of the endangered, anteater-like creatures. Africa is the main source of pangolin shipments, a government source said.
“There is a demand for pangolin scales in Asian countries such as mainland China because the scales can be used in Chinese medicine,” he said.
Officers uncovered the stash after choosing the 20-foot shipping container for inspection at Kwai Chung container terminal on Monday.