Hong Kong Customs last month successfully intercepted a large-scale drug trafficking operation, marking the first discovery of narcotics concealed within the seawater intake valves of an ocean-going vessel. Approximately 417 kilograms of suspected cocaine were seized, with an estimated street value of HK$256 million. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the case.
The vessel involved measures 333 meters in length and 48 meters in width. It had traveled from Brazil, with stops in Singapore, Shanghai, and Ningbo, before entering Hong Kong waters. After conducting intelligence analysis on the ship's structure and route, Customs officers directed it to a designated inspection area on Nov. 4 this year.
During the search operation, divers and underwater drones were deployed to scan an area beneath the ship equivalent to about three standard football fields. The underwater environment presented significant challenges due to extremely poor visibility. The suspicious package was eventually located at the ship's seawater intake gate, about 11 meters below the waterline. It was wrapped in waterproof material and weighted with lead blocks, evidently to prevent it from being drawn into the ship's systems.
Initial investigations suggest the cocaine originated from South America. Given the vessel's frequent international voyages, it may have been used by a criminal syndicate as a mobile maritime storage unit. The hiding spot was highly concealed and accessible only to professional divers. However, Customs had already identified and focused on key structural points of the ship during inspection, thwarting the smuggling attempt. The entire drug consignment was intercepted and did not enter the local market.
Customs authorities noted that this case reflects increasingly sophisticated concealment methods employed by drug trafficking organizations. They emphasized continued collaboration with international law enforcement agencies and did not rule out further arrests. Regarding technology adoption, Customs has been deploying underwater drones in various sizes since 2021 and plans to further integrate advanced tools to enhance operational efficiency, ensure officer safety, and strengthen maritime anti-smuggling efforts.
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