Hong Kong Customs seized about 5.2 kilogrammes of suspected cocaine with an estimated value of about $5 million at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (April 2) and arrested an incoming female passenger.
The female passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Burundi via Nairobi, Kenya yesterday. During customs clearance, Customs officers found two empty but heavy laptop bags inside the female's baggage. This aroused their suspicion. Under X-ray examination, suspicious images appeared. Subsequent in-depth inspection led to the discovery of the suspected cocaine.
The arrested female was 26 years old and claimed to be a teacher. She will be charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at Eastern Magistrates' Courts tomorrow (April 4).
Under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance, the maximum penalty for drug trafficking is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
Ends/Friday, April 3, 2015
