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The Correctional Services Department (CSD) spared no effort in preventing illicit activities in penal institutions in order to ensure a safe custodial environment with good order and discipline, a spokesperson for the Department said today (September 12).
¡°The special searching operation conducted in Hei Ling Chau Correctional Institution (HLCI) yesterday (September 11) after an investigation is part of the security measures we carry out in individual institutions,¡± the spokesperson said.
A total of 22 officers were deployed from other institutions in the operation. Unauthorised articles including self-made gambling paraphernalia, betting notes, extra food from inmates¡¯ meals, food provisions and workshop materials were seized from the institution's dining halls, kitchen, workshops and dormitories.
The spokesperson said,¡°Eighteen prisoners have been transferred to other penal institutions from HLCI. Among them, three have been removed from normal association according to Prison Rule 68B.
¡°The department is following up the operation and any prisoners found to have breached prison rules will be disciplined.¡±
Surprise searching operations are an effective measure in prison management. Four similar searching operations were also conducted in other institutions this year.
Ends/Friday, September 12, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:06
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