Hong Kong Customs seized about 1.8 kilogrammes of suspected cocaine estimated at $1.7 million at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (February 2) and arrested an incoming female passenger.
The arrested person arrived at Hong Kong from Manila, the Philippines yesterday. Upon baggage examination, Customs officers found a briefcase inside her hand carry suitcase. The briefcase was abnormally heavy. Upon further checking, false compartments were found in the briefcase. As a result of close examination, about 1.8 kilogrammes of suspected cocaine were uncovered.
The arrested person, aged 29, will be charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. She will appear at Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Courts tomorrow (February 4). Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, drug trafficking is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
This is the second incoming passenger drug trafficking case detected by Hong Kong Customs at the Airport in the past two days. Hong Kong Customs will continue to keep track of the latest drugs trafficking trend and formulate pertinent anti-narcotics enforcement strategies. In addition, Hong Kong Customs will strengthen intelligence exchange with overseas law enforcement agencies so as to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
Ends/Tuesday, February 3, 2015
