Four employees of Mannings were reportedly among the nine people arrested after Customs seized cannabidiol products containing tetrahydro-cannabinol (THC) worth about HK$14.6 million.
Currently, cannabidiol products can be sold in Hong Kong. But THC is classified as a dangerous drug under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance and importing products containing THC into the city is prohibited unless otherwise approved.
On January 11, officers inspected a batch of cannabidiol products that were marked “THC free” on the packaging at the airport. Laboratory examination revealed that most of the cannabidiol products had contained THC, which called for a follow-up investigation.
After intelligence analysis, officers then raided seven retail shops selling cannabidiol products located in different districts, including three branches of a large chain retailer, and two warehouses in Cheung Sha Wan and Kwai Chung on Wednesday and Thursday.
It was understood that some of the products were being sold at health and beauty products store Mannings.
About 25,000 items of cannabidiol products suspected of containing THC, including cannabidiol oil, skin care products and pet treats, worth about HK$14.6 million were seized.
Five men and four women aged between 21 and 44, suspected to be in connection with the case, were arrested. It was understood that three shop managers and a purchasing manager of Mannings were among the nine arrestees.
Replying to media inquiries, Mannings only said three frontline workers and a representative from the purchasing department have left work to coordinate authority’s investigation for the moment. The company said it has contacted the four employees and will provide full support to them.
Customs added that all arrestees have been released on bail and the investigation is still ongoing.
Officers also warned the public that under the ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offense and the maximum penalty upon conviction carries life imprisonment and a HK$5 million fine.