Hong Kong authorities have announced a major breakthrough in combating international drug trafficking through expanded cross-border intelligence sharing. From October to December, a sophisticated collaboration network spanning 17 jurisdictions enabled the seizure of 1.4 metric tons of suspected narcotics with an estimated street value of HK$431 million (approximately $55.3 million).
The operation, detailed at a Wednesday media conference at Hong Kong International Airport, resulted in 183 identified drug-smuggling cases involving aviation transportation and led to the apprehension of 62 suspects across multiple jurisdictions. The arrested individuals, ranging from 19 to 77 years old, included a significant number of foreign nationals residing outside both Hong Kong and mainland China.
This successful crackdown followed the strategic expansion of Hong Kong Customs’ intelligence-sharing network to include law enforcement agencies from 16 partner jurisdictions, including mainland China, Macao, Germany, and Thailand. The enhanced collaboration framework facilitates joint intelligence analyses and comprehensive risk assessments.
Wong Ngar-lun, Head of Airport Investigations for Hong Kong Customs, emphasized the effectiveness of prompt intelligence exchanges in disrupting drug-trafficking syndicates. Noting that approximately 70% of the city’s total drug seizures in 2025 were intercepted at the airport, Wong highlighted the aviation pipeline’s continued appeal to smugglers and pledged ongoing “multipronged, multilayered” enforcement strategies.
Authorities also announced intensified security measures for transit passengers and cargo, aiming to systematically dismantle Hong Kong’s exploitation as a global transshipment hub for narcotics. The recent operation identified 18 transit-related cases demonstrating this concerning trend.
Under Hong Kong’s Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, convicted drug traffickers face severe penalties including maximum sentences of life imprisonment and fines up to HK$5 million.