Chongqing customs intercepts 88 products of endangered species in 4 months

CHONGQING -- Customs officers of Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality have intercepted 88 products made from endangered species, including ivory and tortoise shell, as of early May.

The Chongqing Customs said on Thursday that the products were discovered in passenger luggage at airport and international parcels. Among the products, 59 were ivory products and 13 were made from giant clam. Others included tortoise shell products, red coral and a wolf skin.

Customs officers said that in March, two suspects were detained in connection with smuggling endangered species articles. Three lion bones, 14 antelope horns and a pair of paperweights made of rare plants were seized, with a total weight of 3.6 kg and valued at 285,000 yuan ($41,000).