Hong Kong Police Bust HK$17M Drug Operation Linked to Taiwanese Man
A major drug operation in Hong Kong has been dismantled by the local police, resulting in the seizure of HK$17 million ($2.2 million) worth of heroin and cocaine. The operation, believed to be orchestrated by an overseas syndicate, involved a new tactic where syndicate members would pose as tourists and rent private housing for drug production and storage. The breakthrough came after the police raided a rented flat in Yuen Long, arresting a 29-year-old Taiwanese man who had entered the city under the guise of being a tourist.
Senior Inspector Tsang Hin-chiu, from the police’s narcotics bureau, described the syndicate’s use of guerilla-style tactics to evade law enforcement efforts. He stated, In this case, we have seen overseas syndicate members coming to Hong Kong to conduct their activities, using guerilla-style tactics to evade police efforts.
During the raid, approximately 14kg of heroin, 1.7kg of crack cocaine pellets, and six red wine bottles containing liquid cocaine were discovered, along with drug production and packaging tools. The police suspect that the syndicate used cooking ingredients and equipment to convert the liquid form of the drug into crack cocaine. Packaging materials found at the site suggest that the premises were also used for dividing and packing drugs before distribution.
Tsang explained that the syndicate took advantage of the Taiwanese suspect’s non-local identity and limited stay in Hong Kong to complicate law enforcement operations. He stated, Since our arrestee is from Taiwan and could only stay in the city for a month on a tourist visa, I believe that the drug syndicate has exploited his non-local identity to manufacture and sell drugs in a guerilla-like manner to make things difficult for law enforcement.
The arrested 29-year-old Taiwanese man is expected to appear in court on Monday, facing charges related to the drug operation. The Hong Kong police are actively investigating the case, aiming to apprehend other individuals involved in the syndicate.
This recent bust sheds light on the alarming rise in drug-related activities in the city. Figures show that the seizure of major illegal drugs, including cocaine, cannabis, methamphetamine, heroin, and ketamine, has surged by two-thirds to 3,712kg in the first five months of this year compared to the same period in 2022.
Law enforcement agencies are ramping up efforts to combat this trend, working diligently to intercept drug shipments and dismantle syndicates involved in drug production and distribution. With the innovative tactics employed by international drug networks, it is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant and adapt their strategies to effectively tackle drug-related crimes.
This successful operation reflects the dedication and commitment of the Hong Kong police in safeguarding the community against the menace of drug trafficking. Their unwavering efforts and cooperation with international partners are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the city’s residents and visitors.
