​Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected drug trafficking case using large-scale electric transformer last month and seized about 120 kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated market value of about $110 million. Three persons suspected to be in connection with the case were arrested.

     Through risk assessment and intelligence sharing with overseas law enforcement agencies, Customs officers selected for inspection a seaborne container, declared as containing electric transformers, arriving in Hong Kong from Costa Rica. Upon examination, Customs officers found a large-scale electric transformer fully filled with flammable liquid inside the container. Ten metal boxes wrapped with multiple layers of metal plate, each concealed with suspected cocaine, were found inside the electric transformer. The total amount of the suspected cocaine seized was about 120kg.

     Customs officers later conducted a controlled delivery operation and arrested two men, aged 14 and 15, suspected to be connected to the case in San Tin on March 24. After follow-up investigation, Customs officers yesterday (March 25) further arrested a 49-year-old woman suspected to be connected to the case in Kwai Chung.

     The two arrested men were laid a holding charge jointly with one count of attempting to traffic in a dangerous drug. They will appear at the Fanling Magistrates' Courts on Monday (March 28). 

     An investigation is ongoing.

     Risk assessment has all along been an effective strategy adopted by Customs to intercept the import and transit movements of dangerous drugs in various channels. The department will continue to step up anti-narcotic efforts by risk assessment and intelligence analysis with international co-operation. 

     Customs reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. 

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

Ends/Saturday, March 26, 2022
Issued at HKT 12:40

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