​Hong Kong Customs on December 2 seized about one kilogram of suspected etomidate (the main ingredient of "space oil"), a kind of Part 1 poison under the Pharmacy and Poisons Regulations with an estimated market value of about $1 million at Hong Kong International Airport.
Through risk assessment, Customs officers on that day inspected an air parcel, declared as carrying aloe vera powder, arriving in Hong Kong from India. Upon inspection, one kg of suspected etomidate powder was found in the parcel.
After a follow-up investigation, Customs conducted controlled delivery operation in Tsuen Wan today (December 12) and arrested a 77-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman, who were suspected to be connected with the case.
An investigation is ongoing.
Customs will continue to step up enforcement against "space oil" through intelligence analysis and maintain close contact with the logistics industry. The department reminds logistics companies to remain vigilant and report to Customs any suspicious activities.
Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, any person who possesses any poison included in Part 1 of the Poisons List other than in accordance with provisions commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for two years.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs' 24-hour report hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/).
Ends/Thursday, December 12, 2024
