Hong Kong Customs seized about 2.5 kilogrammes of suspected liquid cocaine estimated at $2.8 million at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (July 10) and arrested an incoming male passenger.
The male passenger arrived at Hong Kong from Colombia via Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Dubai, United Arab Emirates yesterday. During Customs clearance, Customs officers found four packets of tomato sauce in his suitcase. An X-ray check revealed suspicious images inside the packets. In-depth examination subsequently led to the discovery of the suspected liquid cocaine concealed inside the packets. It is believed that drug traffickers tried to use this concealment method to evade Customs detection.
The arrested 32-year-old man, who claimed to be an auto mechanic, will be charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. He will be appearing at Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Court for mention on Monday (July 13).
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, the maximum penalty for drug trafficking is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
Ends/Saturday, July 11, 2015
