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The Correctional Services Department (CSD) took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate any presence of them in correctional institutions, a department spokeswoman said today (January 17).
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all persons in its custody", she said.
Her comments followed two cases in which correctional officers found dangerous drugs concealed by two remands.
The first case involved a 54-year-old remand, who was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre yesterday (January 16) on a charge of possession of dangerous drug.
Acting on information that the remand, surnamed Lee, might have swallowed some dangerous drugs before his admission, CSD officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation. A total of 33 packets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic straws were discharged in Lee¡¦s stool today.
The second case involved a 25-year-old female remand, surnamed Wong, who was admitted to Tai Lam Centre for Women yesterday on a charge of possession of dangerous drug. CSD officers seized from her mouth a plastic bag with suspected Ketamine.
Both cases have been reported to the Police. Investigation by CSD continues.
The spokeswoman said there were 102 seizures of dangerous drugs in 2007, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Thursday, January 17, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:30
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