Hai Phong seizes 1.6 tonnes of ivory smuggled from Africa

According to details of the case, local authorities checked a suspicious container at International Port of Lach Tray and discovered 1.6 tonnes of ivory tusks mixed with imported farmed cow horns.

The ivory tusks had been cut into pieces, thereby making them easier to smuggle. Most notably, they were also painted black as part of efforts to camouflage them from the police.

A further investigation into the case is now underway.

Vietnam has banned the trade of elephant tusks since 1992. According to Vietnamese law, individuals who store, transport, trade, or advertise ivory of two kg or more may be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison and receive a fine of up to VND15 billion, equal to US$604,379.