Hong Kong Customs foiled on Saturday an attempt to smuggle into the city 4.4 kilos of heroin, with an estimated market value of HK$2.9 million ($370,000), at the Hong Kong International Airport.

Customs officers confiscated the illegal drugs from a 20-year-old male passenger after he arrived from Penang, Malaysia, according to a Customs statement.

It said the man was carrying the contraband inside his carry-on baggage and was intercepted during customs clearance.

The suspect was arrested and charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. He will appear before the Eastern Magistrates' Courts in Sai Wan Ho on Monday.

Customs said it will continue to step up enforcement operations against drug trafficking and reminded members of the public to stay alert and avoid carrying unknown items for other people when flying into Hog Kong.

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offense, with a maximum penalty HK$5 million and life imprisonment.