Published: 12:56, April 11, 2026 | Updated: 12:59, April 11, 2026
Traveler held at HKIA with suspected ketamine worth HK$10m
By Shamim Ashraf
This photo shows suspected ketamine seized during Customs clearance at Hong Kong International Airport on April 10, 2026. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

HONG KONG – An incoming passenger was arrested with suspected ketamine with an estimated market value of about HK$10 million at Hong Kong International Airport on Friday.

The suspected drug, weighing about 25 kg, was concealed in the check-in suitcase and found during Customs clearance, the Hong Kong Customs said in a statement on Saturday.

The 32-year-old male passenger, who arrived in Hong Kong from Istanbul, Türkiye, was subsequently arrested.

A 32-year-old male passenger (center) is seen being escorted by officials upon his arrest for allegedly smuggling in suspected ketamine weighing about 25 kilograms, at Hong Kong International Airport on April 10, 2026. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

He has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be brought up at the West Kowloon Magistrates' Court on Monday, the Customs added.

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance of Hong Kong, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offense and the maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of HK$5 million and life imprisonment.