Thai Passenger Arrested with 8kg 'Space Oil' at Hong Kong Airport

A 22-year-old passenger traveling from Bangkok was arrested at Hong Kong International Airport for allegedly smuggling eight kilograms of etomidate, a key ingredient in the emerging drug known as 'space oil,' valued at approximately HK$8.4 million. The substance was discovered concealed within fruit-flavored drink packets in his checked luggage and also included two alternative smoking products in his carry-on. This incident occurred just before a planned reclassification of etomidate as a dangerous drug, which will impose severe penalties for possession and trafficking. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to combating drug trafficking through a risk-based assessment strategy targeting high-risk regions. The case highlights the growing international focus on synthetic drug manufacturing and smuggling as law enforcement agencies adapt to emerging threats. Investigations are ongoing as officials work to dismantle cross-border drug operations.