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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 23).
"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 Kwan, the 45-year-old was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre on July 20 on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Kwan might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
In Kwan 's stool yesterday (July 22) and this morning, officers found a total of seven tablets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Kwan 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 reception centres.
Ends/Thursday, July 23, 2009
Issued at HKT 11:33
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