Press Release

Correctional staff discover inmates attempting self-harm

     Officers of the Correctional Services Department discovered two female inmates attempting self-harm due to emotional distress yesterday (August 1).

     The first case involved a 18-year-old inmate of Lai King Correctional Institution. She was found to have swallowed a minute metal object in the early hours. Upon discovery, she was immediately sent to the centre's hospital to receive preliminary treatment.

     The second case occurred at around dusk in Lo Wu Correctional Institution. A 51-year-old inmate was found swallowing a small quantity of shampoo. She was stopped immediately and sent to the centre's hospital for preliminary treatment.

     Both inmates were later sent to an outside hospital for further observation and treatment. Arrangements will be made for them to see clinical psychologists for further assessment and counselling.

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

     The two inmates were admitted to custody this year, one for failing to return to a rehabilitation centre upon the expiry of the approved period and the other for conviction for trafficking in a dangerous drug.

Ends/Thursday, August 2, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:31

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