Updated: 04/03/2014 14:39 | By Channel NewsAsia
Authorities seize illegal ivory worth S$2m
SINGAPORE: Singapore authorities have seized one tonne of illegal ivory worth S$2 million, the third largest seizure since 2002.
Acting on a tip-off, officers from the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) and Singapore Customs intercepted and detained a shipment of illegal ivory, estimated to be worth S$2 million, last week.
The shipment, which was declared as coffee berries, was transiting through Singapore from Africa in a 20-foot container and destined for another Asian country.
A joint statement from the AVA and Singapore Customs said officers detected irregularities in the consignment of goods when the container was scanned at the Pasir Panjang Export Inspection Station on 25 March.
A total of 106 pieces of illegal raw ivory tusks, weighing about one tonne, were recovered from 15 wooden crates.
AVA is currently investigating the case.
All elephants are endangered species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
International trade in elephant ivory has been prohibited under the Convention since 1989.
Under the Singapore Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act, a permit is required to import and export/re-export any elephant and its parts and products including ivory.
The penalties for illegal trade in ivory is a maximum fine of S$50,000 per scheduled specimen (not exceeding an aggregate of S$500,000) and/or imprisonment of up to two years.
The same penalties apply to any transhipment of ivory through Singapore without proper CITES permits from the exporting/importing country.
AVA said it will continue to cooperate and collaborate with Singapore Customs and other national and international enforcement agencies to curb wildlife trafficking.
AVA also reminded all companies including shipping and logistics companies, declaring agents and freight forwarders to exercise prudence when accepting jobs from customers or companies, and adopt internal security measures to avoid being implicated in the smuggling of illegal wildlife, their parts and products.
Anyone with information on illegal trade in ivory can contact the AVA on 6325 7625.
AVA said all information provided will be kept in strict confidence. - CNA/xq
