Hong Kong Customs and Macao Customs conducted a joint operation codenamed "Turbine" to step up enforcement action against cross-boundary drug trafficking between Hong Kong and Macao during the period from July 20 to August 31. A total of 18 dangerous drug cases were detected with the arrest of 19 persons. A total of about 4.45 kilograms of different kinds of suspected dangerous drugs with an estimated market value of $5.5 million were seized.
Seventeen men and two women aged between 17 and 58 were arrested in the cases. The seized suspected dangerous drugs include cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, heroin, ketamine and cannabis.
Of the 18 cases, three were effected at Hong Kong International Airport. In one case, Hong Kong Customs intercepted a transhipment parcel from Malaysia to Macao and found 272 grams of suspected methamphetamine concealed between the paper layers of the carton box.
In the other two cases, Hong Kong Customs intercepted two transiting male passengers arrived at Hong Kong from Ethiopia and planned for Macao via SkyPier. They were suspected to have dangerous drugs concealed inside their body cavities. A total of 1.96 kgs of suspected cocaine were seized in the cases.
As for the remaining 15 cases, one involved an incoming passenger who was intercepted at the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal and was found in possession of 1.92 kg of suspected cocaine concealed inside false compartments of his suitcase. The other cases involved outgoing passengers from Hong Kong who carried a small quantity of suspected dangerous drugs.
Hong Kong Customs today (September 4) reminds members of the public that criminals may post recruitment advertisements on unknown websites and social media platforms to lure citizens 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.
Hong Kong Customs believes that the joint operation has effectively combated cross-boundary drug trafficking between Hong Kong and Macao. The department will keep up its close co-operation with the Macao Customs in order to deter drug trafficking activities between the two places.
Hong Kong Customs will continue stringent law enforcement at every boundary control point to combat cross-boundary trafficking activities of dangerous drugs.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Hong Kong Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, September 4, 2019
