Hong Kong Customs conducted a special operation codenamed "Propeller" from October 28 to November 30 with a view to stepping up enforcement action against drug trafficking activities between Hong Kong and Macao. A total of seven outbound drug trafficking cases were detected at the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal, seizing about 180 grams of different kinds of suspected dangerous drugs with an estimated market value of about $175,000.
The suspected dangerous drugs seized during the operation, 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.
Seven men including a 17-year-old student were arrested. The other six are aged between 18 and 61.
With the Christmas holidays approaching, the Customs reminded members of the public, in particular youths, 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. Citizens should not take any chances and think that by hiding small quantities of dangerous drugs they can easily evade investigation and would not be caught. They also should not participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary returns.
Trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence and will lead to a criminal record upon conviction. This would exert considerable impact on further education as well as other aspects.
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 to combat cross-boundary trafficking activities involving dangerous drugs.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, December 2, 2019
