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The Correctional Services Department takes every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into correctional institutions, and to eradicate their presence there, a department spokesperson said today (March 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 later discharging them in his stool.
Surnamed Wong, the 51-year-old remand prisoner was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on March 5 on a charge of possession of dangerous drugs.
Acting on information that Wong might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers found in Wong's stool today five packets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets. An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Wong is continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
There were 93 seizures of dangerous drugs in 2008 with the seizures mainly in reception centres.
Ends/Friday, March 6, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:36
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