Hong Kong Customs detected seven suspected drug trafficking cases during passenger clearance at the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal from November 15 to yesterday (December 12). About 100 grams of suspected cocaine as well as different kinds of suspected dangerous drugs including a small amount of methamphetamine and cannabis with an estimated market value of about $110,000 were seized.
Customs today (December 13) revealed that a total of seven persons, comprising one incoming passenger and six outgoing passengers, aged between 16 and 37, were arrested in the cases. Among the arrested persons, three of them were aged 21 or below.
The suspected dangerous drugs seized in the cases were mostly found on the body of the arrested persons and were packed in small packages ready for distribution.
With the imminent arrival of the Christmas and New Year holiday period, it is anticipated that criminals may make use of websites and social media platforms to lure people into carrying various prohibited or controlled items such as dangerous drugs. Customs reminds members of the public, in particular young people, to stay alert to suspicious recruitment posts on unfamiliar websites and social media platforms. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
Noting that the recreational use of cannabis has recently been legalised in individual overseas jurisdictions, Customs in particular reminds members of the public that cannabis is a dangerous controlled drug in Hong Kong. Illicit import of cannabis or any products that contains controlled cannabinoids (such as tetrahydro-cannabinol), including any food products and drinks, is also controlled under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance.
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 boundary control points.
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/Thursday, December 13, 2018
