Hong Kong customs seize suspected cannabis at airport, arrest mainland man
Hong Kong customs officers arrested a 49-year-old mainland Chinese man on 4 October at Hong Kong International Airport after finding suspected cannabis in his luggage. The man had arrived from Bangkok, Thailand. Officers also found two boxes containing suspected Schedule 1 poison products and an unt
Hong Kong customs officers have arrested a 49-year-old mainland Chinese man at Hong Kong International Airport on suspicion of drug trafficking. The arrest took place on 4 October after officers discovered suspected cannabis during an inspection of the man's luggage. The suspect had arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand on the same day.
In addition to the suspected cannabis, customs officers found two boxes containing products believed to be Schedule 1 poison under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, as well as one untaxed cigarette. The investigation is ongoing.
Customs said it would continue to strengthen efforts to combat drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. It urged the public to remain vigilant and not to accept payment or requests to transport controlled items into or out of Hong Kong. The department warned against assisting others in moving goods without first confirming the nature of the items.
Customs will continue to apply risk-management principles to select passengers from high-risk areas for clearance checks, in order to effectively combat cross-border drug trafficking.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in dangerous drugs is a serious offence. Upon conviction, offenders face a maximum fine of HK$5 million and life imprisonment. Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, possessing any poison listed in Part 1 of the Poisons List without complying with the ordinance is an offence, punishable by a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and two years' imprisonment.
Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, cigarettes are dutiable goods. Importing, handling, possessing, selling or purchasing illicit cigarettes is an offence. Upon conviction, offenders face a maximum fine of HK$2 million and seven years' imprisonment.
Customs urged the public to report suspected drug trafficking activities via its 24-hour hotline 182 8080, its dedicated crime report email account ([email protected]) or its online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).