AFCD cracks down on illegal online animal trade

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department cracked down on an internet-based illegal animal trading activity in Kwun Tong. Forty-three puppies were found at the scene. They were in poor health condition and have been sent to Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for treatment.

A man and a woman were detained for enquiries in the operation. The investigation is on-going.
 
A department spokesman said an AFCD officer, posing as a potential customer, contacted a trader who had put puppies for sale on the internet in early April.

When the transaction was eventually fixed today, the department staff found that the sale was inside an industrial building in Wai Yip Street, Kwun Tong, which was allegedly run without an animal trader licence.

Under the Public Health Regulations, all animal traders, including animal breeding facilities and pet shops, must hold an animal trader licence issued by AFCD and strictly observe relevant licensing conditions and the Codes of Practice. Any person who has been found guilty of illegal trading of animals is liable to a maximum fine of $2,000.

"In their own interest, people should buy pets only from licensed traders," the spokesman said.