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Hong Kong Customs seized about 3.2 kilogrammes of suspected cocaine worth about $3.7 million at Hong Kong International Airport today (September 20) and arrested an incoming female passenger.
The arrested person arrived in Hong Kong from Johannesburg, South Africa today. During Customs clearance, X-ray inspection on her check-in suitcase revealed suspicious images. In-depth examination led to the discovery of three slabs of suspected cocaine being concealed inside the false compartment of the suitcase. It is believed that drug traffickers tried to use this concealment method to evade Customs detection.
The arrested person, aged 26 and claimed to be a merchant, will be charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. She will appear at Tsuen Wan Magistrates' Court on September 21.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, drug trafficking is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.
Ends/Sunday, September 20, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:21
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