Press Release

Correctional officers stop person in custody committing self-harm

      Correctional Services officers stopped a person in custody hurting himself in Pik Uk Prison yesterday (February 13).

      At about 3.50pm, the 24-year-old male person in custody suddenly turned emotional in a cell and hit his head against a stool. Officers at the scene immediately stopped him and called for reinforcement. Taking no heed of warnings given by staff, the person in custody was finally subdued with the use of Oleoresin Capsicum Foam Spray.

      The person in custody sustained minor injury on his forehead and was subsequently taken to the centre hospital for treatment. On the recommendation of the medical officer, he was later transferred to Siu Lam Psychiatric Centre for further assessment and treatment.

      A spokesman for the Correctional Services Department said, "The department uses all possible measures to prevent people in its custody from attempting suicide or self-harm. These measures include administrative arrangements, the improvement of institution facilities, staff training and first aid services."

      The person in custody was sentenced to imprisonment for the offence of theft.

Ends/Friday, February 14, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:42

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