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The Correctional Services Department takes every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into correctional institutions and to eradicate their presence there, a department spokesperson said today (February 12).
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", the spokesperson said.
The comments followed the case of a remand prisoner swallowing dangerous drugs and discharging them in his stool yesterday.
Surnamed Ng, the 38-year-old remand prisoner was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre on February 9 on a charge of possession of a Part 1 poison.
Acting on information that Ng might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers found in Ng's stool four packs of suspected zopiclone and heroin wrapped in condoms.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Ng is continuing. The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesperson said there were 93 seizures of dangerous drugs last year, mainly in reception centres.
Ends/Thursday, February 12, 2009
Issued at HKT 10:58
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