Hong Kong wildlife protection authorities have recorded 23 cases of smuggled orchids in the first month of the year, with the number expected to rise in the coming weeks as Lunar New Year approaches.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department also pledged to step up patrols and enforcement at borders during the holiday season, when such crimes tend to peak.
Endangered Species Protection Officer Jenny Lau Yuen-yung said the department discovered 23 cases of illegally imported orchids…