Preface
Hong Kong has had a serious heroin addiction problem for many years. As no opium is grown in the 404- square-mile territory, all opiates must be imported. Opium and morphine are the main drugs illegally imported the latter of which, not being abused in Hong Kong, is converted into heroin. Stemming from this, the Narcotics Bureau of the Royal Hong Kong Police has over the years built up a fund of experience and expertise in neutralising heroin factories and presenting the evidence before the
courts.
The intention of this booklet is to share this experience with other en- forcement agencies. It is appreciated that in different parts of the world differing techniques might be em- ployed and, indeed, some areas may never encounter the problem. Never- theless, it is believed that this informa- tion will be of interest, and use, to law enforcement officers world-wide who are, or may be, engaged in battling one of today's greatest problems. It is hoped that the confidentiality of this information will be respected by those officers who have access to it.
This booklet has been compiled by two officers who have had extensive experience in anti-narcotics work. They are Superintendent D. M. Hodson and Senior Inspector C. G. Cantley. Both have spent much time and effort compiling this booklet and their efforts are wholeheartedly acknowledged.
The Government Laboratory, in par- ticular the Chief Forensic Chemist, Mr R. Edgley, have given much valuable assistance and advice. Mr Edgley has also checked the accuracy of the text.
Appreciation is also due to the Iden- tification Bureau of the Royal Hong Kong Police and to Mr Peter YUNG, a professional photographer who assisted in providing photographs.
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