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A spokesperson for the Security Bureau said today (March 31) that the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Amendment of First Schedule) Order 2011 and the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 2) Order 2011 would come into effect tomorrow (April 1).
The Orders seek to subject three types of synthetic substances, namely, "derivatives of piperazine", "synthetic cannabinoids" and "derivatives of cathinone", to the control of the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap. 134) (DDO), and a chemical, 1-[(2-Chlorophenyl)-N-(methylimino)methyl]cyclopentanol and its salts, to the regime of the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Cap. 145) (CCO).
The spokesperson said, "The two amendment Orders 2011 aim to deter the trafficking and abuse of the dangerous drugs concerned and help fortify Hong Kong's fight against drugs.
"These synthetic substances have gained popularity overseas as psychotropic drugs. Their harm is commensurate with other psychotropic drugs and will bring serious and irreversible damage to abusers. Additionally, the chemicals concerned can be used as precursor chemicals for the production of ketamine."
The Orders were published in the Gazette on January 14 and introduced into the Legislative Council on January 19.
The spokesperson emphasised, "Illicit trafficking and manufacture of dangerous drugs under the DDO are liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment. Offenders are liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for seven years for possession or consumption of these substances.
"Manufacture, import, export and storage of controlled chemicals under the CCO will require a licence or storage approval from the Commissioner of Customs and Excise. Possession, manufacture, transport or distribution of the substances for the purpose of unlawful production of dangerous drugs is liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for 15 years."
The spokesperson said that the Government would continue to spare no effort in combating the drug problem.
"Legislative control is an important element in addressing new emerging drugs. At the same time, the Government will continue its anti-drug efforts along the five-pronged strategy, namely, preventive education and publicity, treatment and rehabilitation, legislation and law enforcement, external co-operation and research."
The spokesperson appealed to the public, especially youngsters, to remain vigilant and stay away from drugs.
"Abusing or trafficking drugs will cause serious consequences. We must stand firm and knock drugs out," the spokesperson added.
Ends/Thursday, March 31, 2011
Issued at HKT 11:13
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