Press Release

Correctional staff found person in custody attempting self-harm

     Officers of the Correctional Services Department today (August 20) found a person in custody attempting self-harm due to emotional distress at Lai King Correctional Institution.

     The 18-year-old female inmate was found to have swallowed the cap and end cover of a ball pen inside her dormitory in the early hours.

     Officers immediately took her to the centre hospital for initial examination.  She was later transferred to an outside hospital for further medical observation and treatment. Her condition is stable and she will be arranged to see clinical psychologist 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 inmate was sent to the training centre after failing to return to a rehabilitation centre upon or before the expiration of the permitted period.

Ends/Monday, August 20, 2012
Issued at HKT 23:05

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