Hong Kong: Large cocaine discovery - 11kg uncovered hidden in electric wheelchair
Hong Kong Cocaine haul: Hong Kong authorities made a startling discovery at the Hong Kong International Airport when they uncovered 11 kilograms of suspected cocaine concealed within the cushions of an electric wheelchair. The estimated street value of this illicit find is approximately $1.5 million (£1.26 million). The seizure took place as a 51-year-old man was undergoing customs clearance on a Saturday.
The man in question had arrived in Hong Kong from the Caribbean nation of Sint Maarten via Paris. Following the discovery, he was promptly arrested and now faces the possibility of a life sentence if found guilty of drug trafficking charges.
_ff129e48a05f246819ee6500d40c30ef_1280X720.webp)
Customs officials initiated a closer inspection of the electric wheelchair when they grew suspicious during the customs clearance process. Their suspicions were confirmed when they observed signs of re-stitching on the seat cushion and backrest of the wheelchair.
The individual involved is not a resident of Hong Kong and has mobility impairments. He reportedly informed officials that he serves as the director of a car rental company and that the electric wheelchair had been loaned to him by a friend.
An official investigation into this incident is now underway. In response to this discovery, customs authorities have announced plans to enhance inspections of visitors originating from "high-risk regions" as part of their efforts to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
Customs statistics for the year 2022 indicated an increase in the number of cases involving dangerous drugs detected during customs checks, totaling 931 cases, compared to 906 cases in the previous year. These cases resulted in the arrest of 178 individuals in connection with drug-related offenses.
This incident is not the first instance of drugs being concealed within a wheelchair at an airport. In November, authorities in New York seized approximately $450,000 worth of cocaine hidden in the wheels of a woman's wheelchair. Additionally, in September 2022, nearly $1.6 million worth of cocaine was discovered stuffed into the upholstery of a motorized wheelchair in the Italian city of Milan.
- With inputs from agencies
