Exotic fish smuggler Huy Ca Truong receives suspended jail term from SA court over $235,000 racket

THE Adelaide half of a two-man international exotic fish-smuggling racket has received a near-identical sentence to his Singaporean cohort because, a judge says, they were equally guilty.

Courts. Huy Ca Truong charged with import a disease or pest to gain a benefit co accused in a fish smuggling operation outside the Adelaide Magistrates court.

THE Adelaide half of a two-man international exotic fish-smuggling racket has received a near-identical sentence to his Singaporean cohort because, a judge says, they were equally guilty.

On Tuesday, the District Court jailed aquarium owner Huy Ca Truong for two years and seven months, suspended on condition of a two-year, $1000 bond.

Judge Stephen Millsteed said he sought to mirror the penalty he imposed upon Truong’s partner, aquaculture guru Kuok Weai Alex Chang, in November last year.

He said the duo conspired to bring 176 Arowana fish, worth $235,000, into Australia in suitcases to evade a ban on their importation.

“You and Chang should be viewed as equally responsible for this importation,” he said.

“Your actions demonstrate a complete disregard for the ethical treatment of fish, Australian quarantine laws and the Australian environment.

“The crime was commercially motivated, and demonstrated your desire to gain an upper hand on your competition by offering exotic breeds of fish.”

Truong, 35, of Allenby Gardens, pleaded guilty to one count of importing a disease or pest to obtain a commercial advantage.

His business was set to receive the fish with which Chang, 45, of Singapore, was caught at Adelaide Airport in February last year.

Kuok Weai Alex Chang was deported following his case. Picture: Roy VanDerVegt.

Chang, a respected fish expert who “lost face” in his homeland over the crime, also received a two-year, $1000 bond for his part in the racket.

He was subsequently deported.

On Tuesday, Judge Millsteed said Truong and Chang had bonded over their mutual love of exotic fish and had communicated via social media to organise the smuggling.

He said they had successfully imported fish, without detection, prior to Chang being caught at the airport.

However, he said personal references showed Truong was a man of otherwise good character who worked hard to support his wife and young child.

“You intended to make a large amount of money (through the scheme) but I accept you were trying to alleviate business debts,” he said.

“I have decided, with some hesitation, to release you forthwith.

“You are free to go ... I’m sure the courts will not see you again.”

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