Hong Kong Customs intercepts suspected cocaine worth about $3.5 million at airport (Photo)

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (Sept 2) discovered a case of drug trafficking by passengers at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 4 kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated market value of about $3.5 million. One woman was arrested.

The 48-year-old female passenger arrived in Hong Kong yesterday from Amsterdam, the Netherlands. During customs clearance, customs officers found the suspected cocaine hidden in the interlining of her carry-on suitcase. The woman was subsequently arrested.

The arrested person has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be heard at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (4 September).

Given the increasing number of visitors to Hong Kong, Customs will continue to adopt a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance in order 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).

End/Tuesday September 3, 2024

Released at HKT 17:05

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