Police seize record HK$31m of etomidate

Hong Kong police have made their largest drug seizure ever, apprehending approximately 25 kilograms of a suspected substance with an estimated street value exceeding HK$31 million. The Narcotics Bureau executed a raid on an industrial facility in Lai Chi Kok on Tuesday, uncovering a concealed drug storage unit masquerading as a logistics company's office.

Authorities seized a substantial amount of etomidate powder, alongside a significant quantity of packaging materials. Two men, suspected to be employees of the logistics company, were apprehended at the scene. Police believe the seized powder could be used to manufacture over 120,000 etomidate e-cigarette pods.

Investigations revealed that the syndicate employed brand-new express delivery packaging to disguise the drugs as ordinary goods. As Halloween approaches, there is a concern that some individuals may have already begun stockpiling related drugs and arranging for their distribution at various entertainment venues during the holiday season.

Senior Inspector Chu Chun-yip warned that if these drugs reach the market, they will pose a significant risk to public safety, particularly for adolescents, with consequences too severe to contemplate.

The two suspects are currently being detained for investigation. The case is scheduled to be heard at the West Kowloon Magistrates' Court on Thursday.