Hong Kong Customs today (November 12) detected a drug trafficking case involving a passenger at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 5.5 kilograms of suspected crack cocaine, with an estimated market value of about $6 million. A man was arrested.  

     A 48-year-old Mainland male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Manila, the Philippines, today. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected crack cocaine inside his carry-on baggage. The man was subsequently arrested.

     An investigation of the case is ongoing.

     Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not 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. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

     Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

     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 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Ends/Thursday, November 12, 2026
Issued at HKT 20:50

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