South China Morning Post published this video item, entitled “Opium, war and crime: How Hong Kong became known as a smuggling hub” – below is their description.
In recent years, Hong Kong authorities have seized record amounts of illegal contraband, ranging from illicit drugs to endangered wildlife. While large busts are often hailed as law enforcement victories, they also reflect how attractive the city is to smugglers. Hong Kong officials say the fact that the city is an efficient and busy logistics hub is why it can end up along the path of illicit trading. So, what attracts criminals to using Hong Kong to move illicit items? Some historians say the dates back to the mid-19th century, when the territory was forced to become a British colony as a result of the opium wars.
Note: This video has been updated to clarify that there were two, not one, opium wars. The Qing dynasty ceded control of Hong Kong at the end of the first war in 1842 and more territory following a separate conflict that ended in 1898.
Support us:
South China Morning Post YouTube Channel
Got a comment? Leave your thoughts in the comments section, below. Please note comments are moderated before publication.
