​Hong Kong Customs yesterday (February 15) seized about 18 kilograms of suspected heroin and about 800 grams of suspected cannabis buds in Tsuen Wan and Tai Po respectively. The total estimated market value was about $16 million. A man was arrested.
Upon an in-depth investigation, Customs officers targeted an industrial unit in Tsuen Wan, which was suspected to be a drug storage and packaging centre, and intercepted a man who was entering the unit yesterday afternoon. Upon inspection, the officers found 27 clothbags that had suspected heroin concealed inside the false compartments, while another batch of suspected heroin were put inside 20 plastic bags.
During the operation, Customs officers seized a total of about 18kg of suspected heroin and a batch of suspected drug packaging paraphernalia. A 28-year-old man suspected to be connected with the case was arrested.
After a follow-up investigation, Customs officers searched a residential premises in Tai Po, declared to be the arrested man's home unit, and further seized about 800g of suspected cannabis buds.
The arrested man was laid a holding charge with two counts of trafficking in a dangerous drug. He will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts tomorrow (February 17).
Customs reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
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.
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).
