41 People Arrested For Alleged Cannabis Trafficking

Police have arrested 41 people, including secondary school and university students, for allegedly trafficking or possessing cannabis.

The haul is worth more than HK$1.96 million.

The suspects, aged 18 to 54, also include professionals like accountants and engineers.

So far, five have been charged.

Chief inspector Ip Sau-lan from the Narcotics Bureau said the suspects are believed to have promoted the products to youngsters through social media platforms and instant messaging apps.

“We think it’s because of the recent trend in some overseas countries where [recreational] cannabis has become legitimate. That has made some people think it is not harmful,” she said.

“Those traffickers made use of this to promote cannabis as a harmless substance, which is not true.”

Ip said the social media posts claimed the drug could reduce stress and depression, help process thoughts and does not have side effects.

The force seized 6.5kg of cannabis buds, 4.1kg of cannabis leaves, some cannabis oil and candies and other items.