2 Arrested for Seizing 1.1 kg of Suspected ‘Space Oil’ Drug at Hong Kong Airport
In a startling development at the Hong Kong International Airport, two individuals were apprehended by customs officers for their alleged involvement in the possession of 1.1 kilograms of suspected “space oil” drug. The suspects, a 34-year-old woman and a 41-year-old man, were taken into custody upon their arrival in Hong Kong from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The estimated market value of the seized drug amounts to approximately HK$1.2 million, marking a significant discovery in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking.
Authorities Take Action
The Customs and Excise Department of Hong Kong revealed that the seizure took place during customs clearance procedures at the airport. Officers discovered two separate batches of the suspected drug concealed around the suspects’ waists. Subsequently, the pair was arrested and later released on bail pending further investigation into the matter. The government emphasized the importance of implementing a risk assessment approach to identify and intercept passengers from high-risk regions to combat transnational drug trafficking activities effectively.
Rising Concerns
Recent months have seen an escalation in efforts to crackdown on the use of “space oil” drug in Hong Kong, which authorities have identified as the third most commonly abused drug among individuals under 21, following cannabis and cocaine. The drug, containing a short-acting anaesthetic known as etomidate, reportedly induces “transient euphoria” upon consumption. However, officials have issued warnings regarding the potential serious physical and mental consequences of using the drug, including addiction, memory loss, seizures, unconsciousness, and even fatality.
Legislative Measures and Law Enforcement
To address the growing threat posed by the illicit distribution and consumption of “space oil” drug, Hong Kong authorities have taken decisive steps to classify etomidate as a controlled substance. The Dangerous Drugs Ordinance will officially prohibit the drug starting February 14, with severe penalties for individuals found guilty of trafficking or unlawfully importing the substance. Offenders could face life imprisonment and hefty fines amounting to HK$5 million.
In response to the pressing need for enhanced detection methods, the city’s police department announced the introduction of a rapid testing device designed to identify the presence of “space oil” drug within seconds with remarkable accuracy. The innovative device, resembling a Covid test kit, offers a practical solution for detecting the drug, particularly when concealed in e-cigarette capsules, a common method of consumption among users.
As the authorities intensify their efforts to curb the spread of illicit drugs and safeguard public health, the recent arrests and drug seizure at the Hong Kong International Airport underscore the ongoing challenges faced in combating drug trafficking activities. Stay informed as this story unfolds to learn more about the impact of these arrests on the fight against drug abuse in Hong Kong.