Border crackdown exposes illegal food, hazardous goods and live animal smuggling

A recent crackdown at border checkpoints has uncovered a wave of illegal and hazardous goods. Authorities seized counterfeit food, dangerous substances, and even live animals during large-scale inspections. Over 1,000 checks were carried out, with artificial intelligence playing a key role in detecting fraudulent shipments. Inspectors examined more than 145,000 tons of cargo during the operation. Among the findings were 107.9 kilograms of hazardous materials hidden in passengers’ carry-on luggage, which were later destroyed. Another 1.75 tons of counterfeit goods faced the same fate, while 5.11 tons were sent back to suppliers. Food fraud was also a major concern. Officials recorded 47 cases of fake food shipments, totalling 286.9 tons. These products had already reached 108 social institutions before being identified. In addition, 24 violations were found in animal feed and supplements, including traces of pig DNA in cat treats. The illegal transport of live animals and products was another focus. A total of 2,335 live animals and 35.6 tons of goods were intercepted. Authorities issued 2,430 warnings and suspended 144 user registrations as a result. The Mercury AI system helped uncover over 2,000 fraudulent documents during the operation. Stricter controls were also placed on 12 Chinese companies, though no specific agency was named in connection with these measures. Reports on the violations have since been forwarded to Rospotrebnadzor, the prosecutor’s office, and regional authorities. The operation highlights the scale of illegal trade crossing borders. Hazardous materials, counterfeit food, and fraudulent documents were all targeted. Authorities continue to rely on technology and increased inspections to prevent further violations.