The iSmuggler: man 'walking strangely' across China border had 94 iPhones taped to his body
PUBLISHED : Tuesday, 13 January, 2015, 10:38am
UPDATED : Tuesday, 13 January, 2015, 11:43am
Laura Zhou [email protected]
The alleged Hong Kong smuggler was found with the 94 iPhone 6 and iPhone 5s models strapped to his thighs, chest and stomach. Photo: Shenzhen Customs
When a Hong Kong man was spotted "walking strangely" across the border into mainland China his jerky movements aroused suspicion among customs officials.
Further investigations revealed the reason for his discomfort - he was found to have 94 iPhones strapped to his body and legs.
Officers saw the man, wearing a tracksuit and carrying two plastic bags, walking with stiff movements, “as if he was carrying something heavy”, at the Futian border control point at about 8pm on Sunday, the People’s Daily’s affiliated people.com.cn reported.
The gadgetry set off a security alarm and an examination by customs officials revealed the collection of iPhone 6 and iPhone 5s models bound tightly to his chest, stomach and thighs.
Investigators said the gadgets were worth more than 300,000 yuan (about HK$380,000).
The man did not explain to officials what he had planned to do with the iPhones after passing through customs.
The case has now been handed over to anti-smuggling authorities.
Shenzhen customs authorities have stepped up their efforts to crack down on problems of rampant smuggling along the border with Hong Kong since November, particularly involving electronic products.
In the latest joint operation between Shenzhen customs authorities, China’s Ministry of Public Security and Hong Kong Police, more than 200 mainland residents have been denied travel permits because of their alleged involvement in smuggling.
A total of 282 iPhones have been confiscated at Huanggang port and Futian port in the past month, according to reports.
