Canine contraband: A man has been arrested for trying to smuggle this puppy from Shenzhen into Hong Kong.

The Customs & Excise Department urges people not to bring illicit live animals into Hong Hong after a man was arrested for smuggling a puppy today.

About 2.30pm Customs officers at Lo Wu Control Point intercepted a local man, aged 20, arriving from Shenzhen. He had a dog worth about $500 hidden in a plastic bag.

He was arrested and the case has been handed to the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department for follow-up action.

Under the Rabies Ordinance, live animals must have a permit before they can be brought into Hong Kong. Breaching the law warrants a $50,000 fine and a year's jail.