Hong Kong customs arrests 1 traveller from Europe after HK$71 million in ketamine seized in German air cargo
- Man, 24, arrested in Mong Kok two days earlier in an operation involving undercover officers, customs says
- Suspect from eastern Europe is an alleged key member of drug trafficking syndicate, source says
Hong Kong customs officers have arrested a traveller from Europe following the discovery of HK$71 million (US$9 million) worth of ketamine in two German air cargo shipments of raw amber and glitter.
Assistant Superintendent Chan Mong-tik of customs’ drug investigation bureau said on Thursday that the 24-year-old man was arrested in Mong Kok two days ago when he collected the shipments in a controlled delivery operation by undercover officers.
In a follow-up raid on the suspect’s flat in the area after his arrest on Tuesday, customs officers seized electronic scales, box cutters and several large suitcases, Chan said.
He said the seized items were believed to be used for repackaging and distributing illegal drugs.
“The investigation revealed that the man entered Hong Kong on March 31 and rented the flat on April 6,” Chan said.
“We believe a drug trafficking syndicate recently set up a drug distribution network in Hong Kong.”