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Every measure was taken by the Correctional Services Department (CSD) to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate any presence of them, in correctional institutions, a CSD spokesman said today (May 16).
His comments followed the case of a remand prisoner swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in his stool.
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", he said.
The remand prisoner, surnamed Chan, 33, was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) yesterday on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on intelligence that Chan might have swallowed some dangerous drugs, CSD officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
A total of 38 packets of suspected dormicum wrapped in plastic sheets were discharged in Chan's stool this afternoon.
Investigations by the CSD into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Chan are continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesman said there were 88 seizures of dangerous drugs in 2005, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Issued at HKT 15:52
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