Editorial | Hong Kong’s money laundering conviction sends right message to wildlife smugglers
There is a need to send a clear message to sophisticated gangs that their use of Hong Kong for wildlife smuggling will not be tolerated
A legal amendment boosting the authorities’ ability to crack down on wildlife trafficking was seen as a landmark in enabling Hong Kong to shed its unwanted reputation as an international hub for the trade. The change to the Organised and Serious Crimes Ordinance in 2021 empowered law enforcement agencies to obtain documents relevant to their investigations, seize proceeds and impose tougher penalties. It was a breakthrough, allowing investigators to follow the money and target the bigger players.
A 37-year-old man was sentenced to 40 months in jail at the District Court last week in a case involving crime proceeds of around HK$6.7 million (US$861,000). This is a significant development. He had been arrested in 2022 in relation to the smuggling of food and endangered live corals worth around HK$1.5 million.
A groundbreaking financial investigation was to follow. Customs and Excise Department investigators targeted bank accounts used for suspicious transactions with hundreds of other parties. The offender was given an enhanced sentence under the amended ordinance.
This should be the first of many such prosecutions. There is a need to send a clear message to sophisticated trafficking gangs that their use of Hong Kong for wildlife smuggling will not be tolerated. The money laundering conviction and jail term will act as a deterrent.