25-9-2024 (HONG KONG) In a significant blow to international drug trafficking operations, Hong Kong authorities have arrested a Malaysian national in possession of a staggering amount of cocaine. The seizure, valued at approximately HK$75 million, marks one of the largest drug busts in the territory this year.
On Tuesday evening, law enforcement officers swooped down on a car park in San Tin, Lok Ma Chau, where they apprehended a 33-year-old man moments after he alighted from his vehicle. A thorough search of the suspect and his car uncovered a shocking discovery: five nylon bags stashed in the boot, each containing 20 bricks of what is believed to be high-grade cocaine.
Detective Chief Inspector Wong of the Narcotics Bureau told reporters, “Each brick weighs roughly a kilogram, bringing the total haul to an estimated 100 kilograms. The street value of this quantity of cocaine is around HK$75 million (S$12.4 mil) This operation has dealt a significant blow to the drug trade in our city.”
Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, entered Hong Kong as a tourist earlier this month. He was found to be in possession of a Malaysian passport and an international driving licence. Authorities believe the man was operating a rented vehicle, likely arranged by his criminal associates, to distribute the illicit substances.
“We have reason to believe that the suspect was recruited by a drug syndicate based in Malaysia,” Inspector Wong added. “Our intelligence suggests he was offered a sum exceeding HK$30,000 for his role in this operation. This case highlights the lengths to which international drug cartels will go to exploit vulnerable individuals for their nefarious activities.”
The arrest has sent shockwaves through Hong Kong’s law enforcement community, raising concerns about the territory’s role as a potential transit hub for international drug trafficking. Assistant Commissioner Lee of the Organised Crime and Triad Bureau commented, “While we’ve successfully prevented these drugs from hitting our streets, we’re acutely aware that this may be just the tip of the iceberg. Our investigation into the source of these narcotics is ongoing, and we’re working closely with our international partners to trace the wider network.”
