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The Correctional Services Department took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate their presence in correctional institutions, a department spokesperson said today (October 6).
"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 discharging them in his stool today.
Surnamed Leung, the 52-year-old remand prisoner was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on October 3 on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Leung might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers today found in Leung's stool a total of seven packets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Leung is continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesperson said there were 102 seizures of dangerous drugs last year (2007) and 63 this year up to September 30, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Monday, October 6, 2008
Issued at HKT 17:59
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