Hong Kong Customs on November 21 detected a large-scale seaborne drug trafficking case and seized about 228 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds with an estimated market value of about $52 million at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. Three men suspected to be connected with the case were arrested.
Through risk assessment, Customs on that day selected a seaborne container, declared as carrying tyres and arriving in Hong Kong from Canada, for inspection. Upon examination, 98 pieces of tyres were found in the container and 73 of them concealed a total of about 228kg of suspected cannabis buds. The batch of dangerous drugs was packed in plastic bags and concealed inside the hollow space of the tyres.
Upon a follow-up investigation, Customs officers conducted controlled delivery operations and arrested a 65-year-old man and a 58-year-old man, who claimed to be a driver and a company owner respectively, on November 21. On December 6, Customs further arrested a 47-year-old male driver receiving the drugs.
The three arrested men have been released on bail pending further investigation.
An investigation is ongoing.
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 in and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people, nor to release their personal data or home address to others for receiving parcels or goods.
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) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Ends/Thursday, December 21, 2023
