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A spokesperson for the Security Bureau said today (November 27) that the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Amendment of First Schedule) Order 2014 and the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 2) Order 2014 would come into effect tomorrow (November 28).
These two Orders will bring "methoxetamine and relevant derivatives" and "alpha-phenylacetoacetonitrile" under control by adding them to the First Schedule to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, and Schedule 2 to the Control of Chemicals Ordinance respectively.
The spokesperson said, "The amendments aim to deter the trafficking and abuse of methoxetamine and relevant derivatives as well as alpha-phenylacetoacetonitrile. This will help to fortify Hong Kong's defence line in the fight against drugs."
The Orders were published in the Gazette on July 4 and introduced into the Legislative Council on July 9.
The spokesperson added, "Illicit trafficking and manufacture of dangerous drugs under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance 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.
"The manufacture, import, export and storage of controlled chemicals under the Control of Chemicals Ordinance 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 are liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for 15 years."
The spokesperson said, "The Government will continue to spare no effort in combating the drug problem. Legislative control is an important element in addressing new emerging drugs. 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."
Ends/Thursday, November 27, 2014
Issued at HKT 11:00
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