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The Correctional Services Department took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate any presence of them in correctional institutions, a department spokesperson said today (April 11).
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", the spokesperson said.
The comments followed the case of a remand prisoner swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in his stool.
The 36-year-old remand prisoner, surnamed Tong, was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on April 8 on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Tong might have swallowed some dangerous drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
A total of 11 packets of suspected heroin and dormicum wrapped in plastic sheets were discharged in Tong's stool yesterday.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Tong's body is continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesperson said there were 35 seizures of dangerous drugs between January and March this year, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Issued at HKT 13:01
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