Part 5/12:
Patrols along Hong Kong’s waters reveal the difficulty of policing these routes. High-speed patrol boats and the threat of dangerous encounters with smugglers or pirates create an environment where enforcement is a constant struggle. Past incidents, like a customs boat capsizing with officers onboard, highlight the dangers faced by law enforcement working to curb these activities.
Why Do People Smuggle Pets?
Unlike common contraband such as cigarettes or luxury electronics, pets are brought into Hong Kong not for financial gain through customs evasion but driven by demand. Several factors fuel this illicit trade:
- High Prices and Limited Supply: Licensed breeders and pet shops have tightened standards, making purebred or certain breeds expensive and scarce.