Customs seizes $10m ketamine at airport, woman arrested

Hong Kong Customs arrested a 39-year-old woman at Hong Kong International Airport early on Thursday after seizing about 25 kilograms of suspected ketamine worth about HK$10 million hidden in her luggage.

The female passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Prague via Seoul late on Wednesday night. During customs clearance in the early hours, officers found the suspected ketamine concealed in food packages inside her checked-in suitcase.

The woman has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. Her case will be heard at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts on April 4.

Customs said it will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, focusing on passengers from high-risk regions. The department reminded the public not to participate in drug trafficking for monetary gain or carry unknown items for others.

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug carries a maximum penalty of a HK$5 million fine and life imprisonment.