Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected khat leaves (with photo)

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     Hong Kong Customs seized a total of about 95 kilograms of suspected khat leaves with an estimated market value of about $11,000 at Hong Kong International Airport and Tseung Kwan O on October 16, 18 and 19.

     Customs officers examined two outbound parcels destined for Australia on October 16 and 18 respectively and uncovered about 15 kilograms of suspected khat leaves.

     After investigation, Customs officers arrested a 35-year-old woman suspected to be related to the case and seized a further 80 kilograms of suspected khat leaves in Tseung Kwan O on October 19. The woman has been released on bail pending further investigation. Investigation is ongoing.

     Khat leaves contain traces of cathinone and cathine, which are both controlled under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance.

     Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

Ends/Monday, October 23, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:40

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Hong Kong Customs seized a total of about 95 kilograms of suspected khat leaves with an estimated market value of about $11,000 at Hong Kong International Airport and Tseung Kwan O on October 16, 18 and 19. Photo shows some of the khat leaves seized.