Hong Kong Customs stepped up enforcement action against youth drug trafficking activities between Hong Kong and Macao during the period from May 27 to yesterday (July 8). A total of three drug trafficking cases were detected at Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal and China Ferry Terminal, with seizures of about 70 grams of different kinds of suspected dangerous drugs. The estimated market value of the seizures is about $60,000.
The seized suspected dangerous drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine and ketamine, were found concealed inside the underwear or shoes the arrested persons wore, and were packed in small packages ready for distribution.
Three men and one woman aged 21 or below were arrested in the above-mentioned cases. The youngest among them was only 15 years old.
As the summer vacation is just around the corner, a Customs spokesman reminded members of the public, in particular the youth, that criminals may post recruitment advertisements on unknown websites and social media platforms to lure students and young people into carrying dangerous drugs or various controlled items. They are reminded to stay alert and not to carry unknown items for other people.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
Customs will continue stringent law enforcement at every boundary control point.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, July 9, 2019
