Hong Kong Customs seizes $2 million in suspected smuggled goods

Hong Kong Customs and police have intensified their crackdown on the emerging drug known as 'space oil,' a substance containing etomidate that poses significant health risks. Recently, customs officers arrested two individuals at Hong Kong International Airport after discovering 1.1 kilograms of space oil strapped around their waists, valued at approximately HK$1.2 million. The suspects, who arrived from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, have been released on bail as investigations continue. In a related effort, a man was apprehended in Yau Ma Tei for possessing an e-cigarette capsule that tested positive for space oil, marking the first use of police's new rapid testing kit for this drug. Authorities emphasize that space oil is set to be officially banned under Hong Kong law starting February 14, with severe penalties for trafficking. The government is focusing on risk assessment strategies to combat transnational drug trafficking effectively.