************************************************************
Hong Kong Customs seized about 1.5 kilograms of suspected cocaine estimated at $1.7 million at Hong Kong International Airport last night (October 6) and arrested an incoming male passenger.
The male passenger arrived at Hong Kong from Johannesburg, South Africa via Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. During Customs clearance, Customs officers found two boxes of food in the plastic bag carried by him exceptionally heavy. In-depth examination led to the discovery of two packets of suspected cocaine contained separately in the two boxes.
The arrested male, aged 54 and claimed to be a construction worker, will be charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. He will appear at Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Court tomorrow (October 8).
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
Ends/Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Issued at HKT 21:22
NNNN
