Hong Kong customs seize suspected cannabis buds and suspected methamphetamine at airport (with photo)

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (October 9) discovered three cases of drug trafficking involving the concealment of luggage at Hong Kong International Airport and seized approximately 13.5 kilograms of suspected cannabis flower and approximately 3 kg of suspected methamphetamine with a total estimated market value of approximately $5.2 million.

The first and second cases involved two male passengers, aged 24 and 20, who arrived in Hong Kong yesterday from Bangkok and from Chiang Mai, Thailand, via Bangkok, respectively. During customs clearance, approximately 7.8kg and 5.7kg of suspected cannabis flower were seized from their check-in suitcases respectively. The two men were subsequently arrested. The dangerous drugs were packed in plastic bags and vacuum bags, and mixed with personal belongings.

The third case involved a 30-year-old male passenger who arrived in Hong Kong yesterday from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. During customs clearance, approximately 3kg of suspected methamphetamine was found hidden in the false compartment of his check-in suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.

The investigation into the three cases is still ongoing.

Customs will continue to intensify drug trafficking enforcement through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to remain alert and not engage in drug trafficking activities for monetary proceeds. They may not accept hiring or delegation from another party to transport controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to bring unknown items for other people.

Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from risk areas for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking.

According to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in dangerous drugs is a serious crime. The maximum penalty if convicted is a $5 million fine and life imprisonment.

Members of the public can report any suspected drug trafficking activities via Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or via the dedicated crime reporting email account ([email protected]) or via the online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/ form /ced002).

Ends/Thursday October 10, 2024

Released at HKT 10:42 PM

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