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Five staff members of Shek Pik Prison (SPP) today (May 11) were assaulted at work by a prisoner.
The prisoner surnamed Ho, assaulted two prisoners in SPP on April 20 with sharpened toothbrush.
At 12.40pm, two Correctional Assistants, supervised by Principal Officer (PO), surnamed Wong, arrived at Ho's cell to conduct a search on the prisoner and his cell. After entering the cell room, PO Wong ordered Ho to turn around for a body search. Ho refused and when PO Wong repeated his order, Ho suddenly punched PO Wong at the abdomen and attempted a further attack.
The Correctional Assistants in the cell immediately subdued Ho by pressing him on the floor. As Ho continued to struggle, two other staff stationing outside the cell also entered and rendered assistance. Despite given repeated order to calm down, Ho continued to resist fiercely. In view of his violent act and to prevent him from injuring himself and the others, OC foam was applied and Ho was subdued consequently.
In the incident, PO Wong suffered swelling over his lower chest and abrasion over his epigastria. Three of the Correctional Assistants suffered abrasions and swelling over their fingers and limbs, while red marks were found over Ho's back. The Medical Officer examined Ho and all staff and appropriate treatment was given.
The case was reported to the police. CSD will also look into the incident to ensure that violent prone prisoners are under close monitoring and management.
Ends/Monday, May 11, 2009
Issued at HKT 23:25
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