New space oil test kits lead to two arrests

Following the introduction of test kits for space oil, two men were arrested in the Yau Ma Tei and Hung Hom, with the seizure of five e-cigarette capsules containing etomidate, also known as space oil.

Police said Sunday that a 55-year-old man was arrested in Yau Ma Tei yesterday (Jan 18) after one e-cigarette capsule found on him tested positive for etomidate, marking the first arrest since the implementation of the test kit.

On the same day, a 31-year-old man was arrested in Hung Hom after the officers uncovered four e-cigarette capsules containing etomidate.

The two arrestees faced charges of possession of Part 1 poison under the Pharmacy and Poisons Regulations. 

The government plans to amend subsidiary legislation on February 14, classifying etomidate as a dangerous drug. Trafficking dangerous drugs could face life imprisonment and a fine of up to HK$5 million.