Press Release

Drugs seized from remand inmates by correctional staff

The Correctional Services Department (CSD) took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into correctional institutions, and to eradicate any dangerous drugs there, a department spokesperson said today (May 25).

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

The comments followed two cases in which correctional officers found dangerous drugs concealed by two remand inmates.
             
The first case involved a 36-year-old male, who was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre on May 22 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 found in his stool yesterday (May 24) and this morning a total of 15 tablets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets.

The second case involved a 31-year-old female, who was admitted to Tai Lam Centre for Women on May 22 on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug. Officers found in her stool this morning five tablets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets. 
 
Both cases have been reported to the Police. Investigation by the CSD continues.

There were 188 seizures of dangerous drugs last year and 56 this year up to May 24, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.

Ends/Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Issued at HKT 17:06

NNNN