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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 25).
"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 later discharging them in his stool.
Surnamed Chan, the 50-year-old remand prisoner was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on February 23 on a charge of possession of dangerous drugs.
Acting on information that Chan might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers found in Chan's stool twice yesterday five packets and three packets of suspected heroin and triazolam, wrapped in plastic sheets.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Chan is continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
There were 93 seizures of dangerous drugs in 2008 with the seizures mainly in reception centres.
Ends/Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Issued at HKT 15:01
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