​Hong Kong Customs, in a joint operation with Mainland Customs anti-smuggling departments, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Fire Services Department, detected its first drug trafficking case where an underwater compartment of an ocean-going vessel was used for drug concealment. During the operation on November 5 in Tsing Yi, Hong Kong Customs officers seized about 417 kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated market value about $256 million and arrested two men.

     Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Hong Kong Customs identified an ocean-going vessel and suspected that criminals were utilising its underwater hull structure to conceal drugs, and thereby formulated enforcement actions. On November 5, the ocean-going vessel that departed from Brazil was selected for underwater inspection, and 11 bags of suspected cocaine, weighing about 417kg in total, were found in an underwater compartment. After a follow-up investigation, Hong Kong Customs officers arrested two men, aged 45 and 37, who were suspected of being involved in the case in Tsing Yi.  

     The two arrested men have been released pending further investigation. The investigation is ongoing and the likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.

     With the Christmas and New Year holidays approaching, Hong Kong Customs will step up enforcement action to resolutely combat different kinds of drug trafficking activities before the long holidays.

     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 Hong Kong Customs' 24-hour report hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Ends/Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Issued at HKT 16:45

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