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A spokesperson for the Security Bureau said today (July 7) that the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Amendment of First Schedule) Order 2016 would come into effect tomorrow (July 8).
The Order will add Tapentadol and AH-7921 to the First Schedule to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance.
The spokesperson said, "The amendments aim to deter the trafficking and abuse of Tapentadol and AH-7921. This will help to fortify Hong Kong's defence line in the fight against drugs."
The Order was published in the Gazette on May 6 and introduced into the Legislative Council on May 11.
The spokesperson added, "Illicit trafficking and manufacture of dangerous drugs are liable to maximum penalties of a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance. Offenders are liable to maximum penalties of a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for seven years for possession or consumption of these substances.
"Legislative control is an important element in fighting against new emerging drugs. At the same time, the Government will continue its efforts in combating the drug problem in a holistic manner along the five-pronged strategy, namely, preventive education and publicity, treatment and rehabilitation, legislation and law enforcement, external co-operation and research."
Ends/Thursday, July 7, 2016
Issued at HKT 11:00
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