Filipinas held in HK for drug smuggling

MANILA, Philippines – Two Filipino women were arrested in Hong Kong for alleged possession of 14.5 kg of methamphetamine worth P60 million (HK$10.9 million, or $1.4 million), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Tuesday, July 30.

Earlier reports said the women were arrested Sunday, July 28, at Hong Kong’s Chek Lap Kok airport on their way to Clark airport in Pampanga, Philippines.

The women were aged 27 and 31. They claimed to be a logistics worker and an account clerk, Hong Kong authorities reported.

Airport authorities discovered they were carrying 14.5 kilograms (32 pounds) of “ice,” according to a customs official. Their nationality were first not disclosed by Hong Kong authorities.

“The Filipinos are yet to be charged in court, but there was a court ‘mention’ of the case earlier today. The next hearing has been set for October,” the DFA said in a statement.

The drugs were found concealed inside false compartments of 3 suitcases carrying men’s clothing, Customs Drug Investigation head Hui Wai-ming told reporters.

“The weight of the suitcase was a bit abnormal,” Hui said, adding that the drugs could have been sold for more than two times the Hong Kong price in the Philippines.

“As with other drug trafficking cases, the Philippine government, through the Philippine Consulate General, will extend all appropriate consular assistance to the said nationals,” the DFA said.

Crystal methamphetamine creates a feeling of euphoria and increased confidence but hallucinations and paranoia are potential side-effects. It has become a drug of choice for young addicts in Asia.

Under Hong Kong law, manufacturing and trafficking dangerous drugs carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a fine of 5 million Hong Kong dollars. – with reports from Agence France-Presse/Rappler.com