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Singapore seizes tonnes of ivory bound for Japan |
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| SINGAPORE: July 12, 2002 | ||
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SINGAPORE - Singapore said yesterday it seized 532 elephant tusks and more than 40,000 pieces of ivory from a shipping container en route from Africa to Japan.
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Acting on a tip, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority found about six tonnes of raw tusks and cut ivory pieces, to be used for making name stamps, in a container on June 28. "The shipment of ivory, which originated from Africa, was destined for Japan, where it is known as a thriving market for name seals or 'hankos'," the authority said in a statement. Singapore is a signatory to international conventions banning trade in endangered species and prohibits the import and export of wildlife parts without a permit. Traffickers face a fine of up to S$5,000 ($2,860), a year in jail or both. The authority gave no details of who was behind the shipment or the African country of origin but said it was investigating the case in cooperation with Singapore Customs, the police and international agencies.
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REUTERS NEWS SERVICE
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