TIANJIN: Customs officers of northern China’s Tianjin Municipality have intercepted 2,235 pieces of products made from endangered species since the start of this year.
The products, weighing 324.14 kg in total, were discovered in passenger luggage and international parcels. Among the products seized, 135 items were ivory and related products with a combined weight of 24.7 kg. Other products include tortoise shell, whale tooth and cobra specimens, according to a source of Tianjin Customs.
Twenty-three cases have been filed for further investigation. Three suspects were detained for suspicion of smuggling endangered species and will face criminal charges.
The Tianjin Customs source said they would continue to maintain high pressure and combat smuggling of products made from endangered species.