Hong Kong Customs announced on 1 October that officers intercepted three separate consignments of suspected cannabis buds at Hong Kong International Airport on 29 and 30 September, arresting two Philippine nationals, two Mainland Chinese and one Hong Kong resident. The total haul of 46 kg has an estimated street value of HK$9.2 million. The drugs were concealed in checked luggage arriving from Bangkok, with some passengers transiting through Ho Chi Minh City. X-ray imaging and risk-profiling algorithms flagged the suitcases for secondary inspection. Customs also found First Schedule prescription-only medicines hidden among the narcotics. While the cases centre on drug trafficking, they underscore heightened border-security vigilance during the peak-travel Golden Week period. Customs said it will focus resources on high-risk routes and passenger profiles, urging the public not to accept packages from strangers. For companies flying in staff, the incident is a reminder that inspections may lengthen clearance times for selected flights. Travellers should allow additional buffer in meeting schedules and ensure they carry no prohibited items or unlabelled medicines, as penalties range up to HK$5 million and life imprisonment under Hong Kong’s Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. Customs’ 24-hour hotline (182 8080) remains open for tip-offs, and the agency will continue intelligence-led operations throughout Golden Week.
