Police have smashed a triad-controlled syndicate that recruited youngsters to sell illegal substances after getting them hooked on free drugs. This followed a three-month undercover operation that ended in a series of raids.
Its 26-year-old ringleader, his wife and 17 others were arrested in raids on more than 20 locations yesterday and on Tuesday night. Police believe the suspects, aged from 17 to 27, are members of the Wo Shing Wo triad.
Last night, officers were looking for two more men in connection with the case.
Illegal drugs including ketamine and cocaine, drug-packaging equipment, jewellery and cash were seized in the operation. They are estimated to be worth more than HK$500,000.
'Information indicated that free drugs were offered [by the gang] to lure youths,' said Chief Superintendent Henry Ho ming-sun, the acting Kwai Tsing district commander.
'When the youths got hooked, the gang then charged them for the drugs. Those who could not pay were recruited to find new clients and sell drugs.'
