Hong Kong Customs intercept suspected ketamine worth about $10 million at airport (Photo)

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On August 29, Hong Kong Customs discovered a case of drug trafficking involving concealed luggage at Hong Kong International Airport, seizing approximately 20 kilograms of suspected ketamine, with an estimated market value of approximately US$10 million.

A 22-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong that day from London, United Kingdom via Brussels, Belgium and Zurich, Switzerland. During customs clearance, the suspected consignment of ketamine was found in his checked-in suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.

An investigation is ongoing.

After the resumption of normal travel and exchanges with the mainland and other parts of the world, the number of visitors to Hong Kong has also increased steadily. Customs will continue to implement a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking.

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in dangerous drugs is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a $5 million fine and life imprisonment.

Citizens can report suspected drug trafficking through the Customs 24-hour hotline at 2545 6182, through the dedicated crime reporting email address ([email protected]) or through the online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).