Police operations in Hong Kong led to the arrest of a 33-year-old man and the seizure of illegal narcotics and counterfeit currency totaling an estimated HK$600,000 following a routine traffic stop in the busy Causeway Bay district late Friday afternoon. Officers from the Hong Kong Island Regional Traffic Enforcement and Control Unit initially approached the driver for a parking violation, which quickly escalated into a five-count arrest involving drug trafficking and forgery.
The incident unfolded around 4 p.m. on December 5 when patrolling officers noticed a private Audi sedan parked illegally on Lan Fong Road, obstructing traffic flow. As officials attempted to issue a citation, the male driver resisted engagement and tried to evade detention. With assistance from nearby citizens, police successfully subdued the suspect.
Upon securing the individual, authorities utilized a police sniffer dog to conduct a thorough search of the vehicle. The inspection yielded a substantial cache of illegal materials, including approximately 1,400 grams of suspected ketamine and 45 vape cartridges allegedly containing etomidate, a substance sometimes distributed locally under the street name “space oil.” Additionally, police recovered 33 suspected counterfeit Hong Kong banknotes, collectively valued at approximately HK$600,000 street value.
Serious Charges Follow Traffic Violation
The suspect, identified locally as a man surnamed Au, faces multiple serious criminal charges handled by the Wan Chai District Crime Squad, Team 8. The charges lodged against him include trafficking in a dangerous drug, possession of counterfeit currency, and obstructing a police officer in the execution of duty. Further investigation revealed prior motoring offenses, leading to additional charges of driving while disqualified and driving without third-party insurance.
The prompt operational response in the Wan Chai district, where the initial traffic offense occurred, effectively disrupted a significant alleged distribution network. Authorities confirmed that the suspect had previous arrests related to driving offenses, underscoring the severity of the alleged repeat criminal behavior.
High Penalties for Drug Trafficking
Law enforcement officials took the opportunity to issue a public reminder regarding the stringent laws surrounding drug offenses in Hong Kong. Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap. 134), drug trafficking is treated with the utmost severity. Individuals convicted of this offense face maximum penalties that include a fine up to HK$5 million and potential life imprisonment.
This incident highlights the crucial role that seemingly minor traffic enforcement actions play in uncovering larger, more complex criminal activities, often leading to the interception of dangerous materials and the apprehension of individuals involved in organized crime. The suspect remains in custody pending further questioning and formal legal proceedings.
Key Takeaways for Residents:
To maintain public safety and deter illicit activity, authorities urge the public to:
- Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately notify police of any suspected drug-related activity or the circulation of counterfeit currency.
- Understand Legal Penalties: Be aware that penalties for drug trafficking and forgery are extremely severe in Hong Kong, reflecting the government’s zero-tolerance stance.
- Assist Law Enforcement: Cooperation with police during active operations, such as assisting in subduing a resisting suspect, is vital for community safety.