Hong Kong Customs Seizes HK$256 Million of Suspected Cocaine Stashed in Ship Hull

Hong Kong customs authorities have made a significant breakthrough in their fight against drug smuggling, seizing HK$256 million (US$32.89 million) worth of suspected cocaine hidden in the hull of a large cargo ship. This operation marks the first time that a drug smuggling operation involving an underwater compartment has been uncovered by Hong Kong customs.

The operation, which took place last month, was supported by intelligence from mainland China and utilized underwater robots to uncover the illicit drugs. This discovery has not only led to the seizure of a substantial amount of cocaine but has also disrupted what investigators believe was an attempt to use the vessel as a massive drug storage site.

According to Customs Drug Investigation Bureau head Lau Yuk-lung, this operation represents a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Hong Kong. Lau emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the use of advanced technology in combating such criminal activities.

This seizure comes at a crucial time as drug trafficking continues to pose a significant threat to public safety and security in Hong Kong. The authorities’ swift and decisive action in intercepting this large quantity of cocaine demonstrates their commitment to tackling drug-related crimes and protecting the community from the harmful effects of illicit substances.

The successful operation highlights the importance of international cooperation and the use of advanced technology in combating transnational crimes such as drug trafficking. By leveraging intelligence sharing and innovative tools like underwater robots, law enforcement agencies can effectively disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in drug smuggling.

As the investigation into this case continues, Hong Kong customs authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to safeguard the city from the scourge of drug trafficking. The seizure of HK$256 million worth of suspected cocaine serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by illicit drug trade and the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to address this issue.

#HongKong #DrugTrafficking #LawEnforcement #CocaineBust #InternationalCooperation

References:
1. Source: South China Morning Post – [Hong Kong customs seizes HK$256 million of suspected cocaine stashed in ship hull](https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3336667/hong-kong-customs-seize-hk256-million-suspected-cocaine-stashed-ship-hull?utm_source=rss_feed)
2. Source: Mastodon – [President Trump’s lawsuit alleges that the BBC’s fall 2024 documentary was “a…](https://m.ai6yr.org/@npr_bot/115734675646782604)
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