THE OPIUM TRAFFIC.

Otago Witness, Issue 3726, 11 August 1925, Page 7

THE OPIUM TRAFFIC.

A CHINAMAN FINED. CHRISTCHURCH, August 6. A Chinaman, who wished to find temporary solace from the cares of the world, yesterday afternoon decided to have a pipe of opium. Unfortunately for him at the same time, police and Customs officers made an official call. His indulgence in “the sweet drug of forgetfulness” cost him £SO in tho Magistrate’s Court this morning. The Chinaman, Fong Lee, market gardener, of Ferry road, pleaded guilty to a charge of having in liis posssesioa opium in a form suitable foT smoking. W. J. Wratt, Customs collector, said that a raid had been made on accused 9 premises yesterday afternoon. Accused was found in a room smelling strongly of opium and he was slightly under the influence of the drug. A warm opium pipe was in his possession and smoking apparatus was in the room. There was a set of scales there and a tin containing five or six ounces of opium. From that, it looked as if the accused had been selling the drug. The accused was distressed when raided and offered to pay bribes un to £SO if ho were let go. In April, 1924, lie had been convicted for a similar offence and fined £SO. Mr W. A. White, who appeared for the accused, said that Fong Lee kept opium in the house, because there were times when he did not feel well. The Magistrate (Mr Widdowson): Is that a cure for all Chinese ills?—My client thinks so. The accused was fined £SO and costs.