Another batch of smuggled ivory was found at Lach Huyen international port in the northern city of Hai Phong on February 6, the second of its kind within seven days.
Hai Phong (VNA) – Another batch of smuggled ivory was found at Lach Huyen international port in the northern city of Hai Phong on February 6, the second of its kind within seven days.
Examining a suspicious container on the day, the Region 1 Coast Guard High Command and the municipal Department of Customs uncovered 42 pieces of ivory tusks weighing 125kg and contained in sacks. The illegal items were mixed into the horns of farmed oxen, imported from Africa to Vietnam by sea.
Earlier, on February 2, a container containing 117 pieces of ivory tusks with a total weight of 490kg was detected at the port. The tusks were also mixed with imported cattle horns.
Further investigation is underway.
Vietnam has banned the trading of ivory elephant tusks since 1992. Trading, storing and transporting ivory is forbidden, with violators fined from 5-50 million VND (213.2 – 2,132 USD) or six months to five years in prison./.
Facing the current serious situation involving the smuggle of ivory products and others related to elephants in the Central Highlands as well as other localities, experts hold that it is high time now for management offices to get involved in the fight against the evil and work out timely inspection and punishments.
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Whether they grow up to become journalists, diplomats, or professionals in other fields, these children can one day become bridges of friendship and cooperation, telling new and inspiring stories of Vietnam – China relations, said Ambassador Pham Thanh Binh.
The tusks seized at the scene (Photo: VNA) 
