Press Release

Correctional staff seize drugs from remand inmates

The Correctional Services Department (CSD) took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into correctional institutions, and to eradicate their presence there, a department spokesperson said today (October 23).

"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all persons in its custody", the spokesperson said.

The comments followed three cases within two days in which correctional officers found dangerous drugs concealed by two remand inmates.

Following the seizure of 25 tablets of suspected midazolam and heroin wrapped in plastic sheets from a 49-year-old remand yesterday (October 22), CSD officers seized from his stool this morning another six tablets of suspected midazolam wrapped in plastic sheets.

Another case involved a 77-year-old remand who was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre yesterday on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.

Acting on information that he might have swallowed some dangerous drugs before his admission, CSD officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation. Officers seized from his stool this morning a total of 11 tablets of suspected midazolam and heroin wrapped in plastic sheets.

These cases have been reported to the Police. Investigation by CSD continues.

There were 93 seizures of dangerous drugs last year and 146 this year up to October 22, with the seizures mainly in reception centres.

Ends/Friday, October 23, 2009
Issued at HKT 15:48

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