Customs arrest woman, 18, in $2.6m cannabis bust at HK airport

Hong Kong Customs intercepted a drug smuggling attempt at the airport on Thursday, arresting an 18-year-old female traveler arriving from Bangkok with approximately 12 kilograms of suspected cannabis flower worth HK$2.6 million.

The seizure occurred during routine baggage inspection when officers discovered the illicit substance concealed within 25 plastic bags in the passenger's checked luggage.

The young woman was immediately taken into custody, with investigations ongoing into the international drug trafficking operation.

Customs officials emphasized their continued commitment to combating narcotics smuggling through intelligence-led operations, including enhanced screening of passengers from high-risk regions.

The department warned the public against involvement in drug trafficking schemes, urging residents to remain vigilant.

"Never transport items of unknown origin or accept payment to carry controlled substances across borders," a Customs spokesperson cautioned, highlighting the severe penalties for drug offenses under Hong Kong law.