Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cocaine (with photos)

     Hong Kong Customs seized a total of about 2.2 kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated market value of about $2.5 million at Hong Kong International Airport on December 10 and today (December 14).

     Customs officers inspected an air mail parcel from Brazil on December 10 and found about 1.2 kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated market value of about $1.4 million concealed inside four cans of powdered formula and coffee powder in the parcel.

     After follow-up investigation, Customs officers yesterday (December 13) arrested a 20-year-old man suspected to be in connection with the case in Tsz Wan Shan. He has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts tomorrow (December 15).

     Also, a 64-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Brussels, Belgium, this morning. During Customs clearance, about 1 kilogram of suspected cocaine with an estimated market value of about $1.1 million was found concealed inside a false compartment of his tablet case. The man was then arrested. Investigation is ongoing.

     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 dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk).