In light of the anticipated increase in local demand for drugs before the Christmas holiday, Hong Kong Customs mounted anti-narcotics operations to combat drug trafficking activities through air cargo and passenger channels at Hong Kong International Airport from November to December 16. During the operations, a total of 83 drug cases were detected, and about 373 kilograms of drugs, including cannabis, methamphetamine, ketamine and cocaine, with an estimated market value of more than $160 million, were seized. Twenty-two persons suspected to be connected with the cases were arrested.
Customs has long striven to intercept the inflow of drugs to Hong Kong by adopting a risk-management and intelligence-led approach based on the trends of drug markets and smuggling channels. Also, Customs will continue to make necessary adjustments in strategy and deployments in response to changes in drug trafficking trends and enhance co-operation with overseas enforcement agencies to fight against transnational narcotics trafficking activities.
​Customs reminds members of the public not to release their personal data or address to others for receiving mail or goods to avoid having their information used in illegal activities. The public should also refrain from receiving mail and goods on behalf of others.
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 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 19, 2024
