A THAI alleged to be responsible for the import of high quality heroin with a street value of HK$2.2 billion into New York through Hong Kong was arrested last night at Kai Tak airport.
The 47-year-old was arrested on an extradition warrant by officers from the Narcotics Bureau in a joint operation with the US Drug Enforcement Agency.
The man, whose name was given only as Tang, is wanted in the US for conspiracy to import 476 kilograms of No 4 heroin between 1986 and 1989.
The source added that it was believed the heroin was smuggled into the US by couriers in quantities of three to four kg inside rosewood furniture.
Tang is expected to appear in Eastern Court this afternoon.
Under the terms of the extradition agreement between Hong Kong and the US, Tang can be held in custody for up to 60 days.