Mainland traveller held after drugs found at airport
On.cc · 2 SOURCES1 day ago1 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong customs officers arrested a 30-year-old mainland inbound traveller at Hong Kong International Airport on 24 September after discovering about 5 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds and 115 duty-unpaid cigarettes in his luggage. The man had arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand, and the seized items were estimated to have a total market value of about HK$1 million.
Key Points
- The arrest was made on 24 September at Hong Kong International Airport during customs clearance of an inbound passenger from Bangkok.
- Customs officers said the suspect was a 30-year-old mainland man who flew to Hong Kong from Thailand on the same day.
- About 5 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds were found in the traveller's carry-on baggage during inspection.
- Officers also found 115 duty-unpaid cigarettes in the man's checked baggage, according to the customs account.
- The case remains under investigation, and customs warned the public not to carry controlled items for others for money
Why It Matters
The case points to continued customs scrutiny of inbound air passengers and the legal risks for anyone carrying suspected drugs or untaxed tobacco into Hong Kong. Customs said drug trafficking carries a maximum penalty of a HK$5 million fine and life imprisonment, while offences involving illicit cigarettes can lead to a HK$2 million fine and seven years in jail