Macao-bound river boat raids uncover smuggled cosmetic products

In a special operation in late June, authorities uncovered suspected pharmaceutical and other products valued at a total of 87.5 million dollars in 5 different river boats bound for Macao.

The Organised Crime Investigation Bureau found 723kg of suspected controlled sea cucumbers, 1.33 million pharmaceutical products like cosmetic injectables and slimming injections, 1,500 pieces of fishing gear, and 59kg of tobacco products.

Officials believe the motive was to evade regulations and taxes, as both pharmaceutical and tobacco products either require permits or are subject to taxes.

Authorities warn that these are serious offences and for imports or exports valued at over 20 million dollars, the maximum penalty is 7 years of imprisonment.