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The Correctional Services Department (CSD) takes every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and eradicate their presence in, correctional institutions, a department spokesperson said today (December 8).
"We are committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all persons in our custody", the spokesperson said.
The comment followed two cases in which correctional officers found suspected dangerous drugs concealed by one prisoner and one remand.
The first case involved a 53-year-old prisoner, surnamed Chan, who was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on December 3 for the offence of publishing obscene articles.
Acting on information that the prisoner might have swallowed some dangerous drugs before his admission, CSD officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
On December 5, CSD officers seized from his stool a plastic pack containing suspected heroin.
The second case involved a 51-year-old remand, surnamed Choi,who was admitted to LCKRC on December 3 on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
A total of six packets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets were discharged in Choi's stool on December 6.
Both cases have been reported to the Police. Investigation by the CSD continues.
The spokesperson said there were 102 seizures of dangerous drugs last year (2007) and 86 this year to date, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Monday, December 8, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:06
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