ICE, Korean Customs seize khat destined for US valued at $3 million
Largest seizure of khat in Korean history
SEOUL, South Korea – A joint effort between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Attaché Office in Seoul, the Felony Crime Investigation Department within the Incheon District Prosecutor’s Office (IPO) and the Korean Customs Service led to the seizure of 3,169 kg of dried khat with an estimated street value of $3 million in U.S. currency.
The khat, which was destined for the United States, was shipped from Kenya as henna. It is the largest seizure of khat in South Korea’s history. It is also their first prosecution for dried khat. Dried khat is an illegal substance in the United States as it contains cathinone, a controlled substance.
One Ethiopian and one American were arrested as part of the seizure. Both are in IPO custody awaiting the outcome of their cases.
Khat is a plant native in Africa and contains cathinone which causes stimulation and excitement. Its leaves are chewed or dried for tea. Cathinone is known to be very addictive and has been classified as a controlled substance in the United States since May 1987.
“We commend the government of South Korea for their commitment to combatting drug trafficking destined for the United States,” said HSI Seoul Attaché Taekuk Cho. “This seizure is another example of the great bilateral relationship between our two nations.”
Through its International Operations, HSI has 65 operational attaché offices in 46 countries around the world. HSI special agents work closely with foreign law enforcement agencies through a robust network of specialized, vetted units known as Transnational Criminal Investigative Units. Additionally, HSI brings personnel from host countries to the United States to train at the Department of Homeland Security Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia.
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