********************************************

About 180 students from five secondary schools in Sai Kung District took part in a forum organised by the Correctional Services Department (CSD) today (January 21), learning how to avoid committing crime.

Speaking at the student forum, the Chairman of Sai Kung District Fight Crime Committee, Mr Chan Kwok-kai, urged students to make the right choice at the crossroad when confronting crime.

Following the launching of the student forum entitled "Options in Life" in December 2003, this is the 12th in a series of student forums to be held in various districts. It aims to provide opportunities for secondary school students to gain an insight into the consequences of committing crime and driving home the message that the "choice" is one's own.

Two rehabilitated young offenders also shared their experiences of rehabilitation with students at the forum.

Also taking part in the forum were the Senior Superintendent of Pik Uk Prison of CSD, Mr Yeung Ping-wing, members of the Sai Kung District Fight Crime Committee, teachers and volunteer workers.

Ends/Friday, January 21, 2005

NNNN