********************************************************
The Correctional Services Department took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into correctional institutions, and to eradicate their presence there, a department spokesperson said today (June 19).
"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 inmate swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in his stool.
Surnamed Fan, the 45-year-old inmate was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) yesterday (June 18) on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Fan might have swallowed some drugs before his admission, department officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers this afternoon found in Fan's stool 15 tablets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Fan is continuing.
The case has been reported to the police.
There were 93 seizures of dangerous drugs last year and 65 this year up to May 31, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Friday, June 19, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:13
NNNN