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The Correctional Services Department took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into correctional institutions, and to eradicate their presence there, a department spokesperson said today (July 3).
"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 inmate swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in his stool.
Surnamed Tsang, the 48-year-old inmate was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on June 30 on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Tsang might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers found in Tsang's stool yesterday (July 2) and today a total of five tablets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Tsang is continuing.
The case has been reported to the police.
There were 93 seizures of dangerous drugs last year and 78 this year up to June 30, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Friday, July 3, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:31
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