Hong Kong Customs yesterday (August 13) foiled two drug trafficking attempts by air passengers at the Hong Kong International Airport and seized 60 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated value of about $58 million.
Customs officers yesterday afternoon intercepted a 35-year-old male passenger, who claimed to be a chef, arriving from São Paulo, Brazil, at the arrival hall of the airport for clearance. As a result, 48kg of cocaine wrapped in quilts was found inside the passenger's two suitcases. This is the single largest haul of drugs found involving trafficking by an individual passenger.
Meanwhile, another 22-year-old female passenger, who claimed to be unemployed, arriving in the same flight, was also intercepted for inspection. A total of 12kg of cocaine was found inside the false compartments of four rucksacks in her suitcase.
The arrestees will each be charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at the Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Court tomorrow (August 15).
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, drug trafficking is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
Ends/Wednesday, August 14 2013
