*********************
The Correctional Services Department (CSD) took every measure to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate any presence of them in correctional institutions, a department spokesperson said today (December 19).
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", he said.
His comments followed the case of a remand prisoner swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in her stool.
The 39-year-old remand prisoner, surnamed Cheng, was admitted to Tai Lam Centre for Women (TLCW) yesterday on a charge of possession of dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Cheng might have swallowed some dangerous drugs before her admission, CSD officers put her in an isolation cell for close observation.
A total of 13 packets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets were discharged in Cheng's stool this afternoon.
An investigation by the department into whether dangerous drugs were still concealed in Cheng was continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesperson said there were 109 seizures of dangerous drugs between January and November this year, with most of them in the reception centres.
Ends/Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:01
NNNN
