Hong Kong police raid US$123,000+ ketamine lab controlled by syndicate

On Friday, August 16, Hong Kong police arrested a 22-year-old man for allegedly manufacturing ketamine in a Tsuen Wan industrial building, seizing HK$960,000 (US$123,130) worth of drugs and raw materials.

Senior Inspector Chan Wing-yu reported: "The syndicate required this martyr to install multiple surveillance cameras in the 200 sq ft flat, monitoring his every move around the clock and teaching him step-by-step how to make drugs.”

During the raid, police found 2 kilograms of ketamine and 6 kilograms of raw materials, alongside drug-making equipment such as an electronic scale, induction stove, and mixer.

They confirmed that the drugs were confiscated before reaching the market.

The suspect, uncooperative and emotional during his arrest, now faces charges of drug trafficking, manufacturing, and obstructing a police officer.

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Police say drug manufacturing cases are rare in Hong Kong and are tracking down other syndicate members. Chan urged the public to report any suspicious chemical smells, which could signal a dangerous drug operation.

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According to UNODC’s ‘Synthetic Drugs in East and Southeast Asia: Latest developments and challenges’ report which came out in March this year, in 2023, Hong Kong authorities seized 2,7 tonnes of ketamine—22,8% more than the previous year, marking the highest total ever recorded in the territory.

The report also states that the number of ketamine users in Hong Kong increased slightly in 2023 to 534 people from 509 people in 2022.

Via South China Morning Post

Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.

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