Cocaine Seizure at Changi Airport Highlights Need for Advanced Screening

On 29 July 2025, officers from Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) arrested five female foreign nationals, aged between 21 and 48, for suspected drug trafficking in the transit area of Changi Airport Terminal 4. The arrests followed an exchange of intelligence with the Hong Kong Police Force’s Narcotics Bureau (HKNB).

During the operation, CNB officers observed two of the women exchanging luggage. A subsequent search of all five women’s belongings revealed approximately 26.9 kg of cocaine and 10 g of cannabis, hidden inside stuffed toys.

Senior Assistant Commissioner Sng Chern Hong, Covering Director of CNB, emphasized Singapore’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking, noting that intelligence-sharing and international collaboration were key in intercepting large-scale operations. Under Singapore law, trafficking more than 30 g of cocaine carries severe penalties, including the mandatory death penalty.

Cases like this underscore the critical importance of advanced detection technologies at airports to prevent the concealment and movement of illicit substances. The SAUST EU-funded Project is developing high-resolution vapour screening technology to detect trace amounts of controlled substances quickly and accurately, ensuring baggage integrity and enhancing airport security without disrupting passenger flow.

Learn more here.