Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) seized two live humphead wrasses from a restaurant in Lok Fu during an inspection operation yesterday evening (March 19), with an estimated market value of about $17,000.
Following a complaint received earlier alleging that a restaurant in Lok Fu was suspected of illegally selling the endangered humphead wrasse, AFCD officers conducted an inspection at the restaurant. During the operation, officers found two live humphead wrasses on display in a fish tank at the restaurant, and the species was also listed on the restaurant menu. AFCD officers requested the restaurant manager to provide proof of origin for the fish. The document provided indicated that the humphead wrasses were wild-caught.
The humphead wrasse is listed in Appendix II to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). According to the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), possession of live specimens of Appendix II species of wild origin requires a Licence to Possess. As the restaurant manager was unable to produce any required licence, the AFCD has therefore seized the humphead wrasses for further investigation.
A spokesman for the AFCD said, “Illegal possession of endangered species is a serious offence. Any person contravening the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years, and the seized specimens will also be forfeited upon conviction.”
The Government is committed to protecting endangered species. The AFCD will remain vigilant and continue to monitor and collect intelligence through various channels, and proactively take enforcement action to combat offences involving endangered species. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illegal possession of endangered species to the AFCD by calling 2150 6978 or emailing to espint@afcd.gov.hk.