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Every measure was taken by the Correctional Services Department (CSD) to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate any presence of them in, correctional institutions, a spokesman for the CSD said today (April 18).
His comments followed the case of dangerous drugs swallowed by a remand who later discharged them in his stool.
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", he said.
The remand, surnamed Ng, 59, was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) on April 11 on charge of "Possession of dangerous drug".
Acting on intelligence that Ng might have swallowed some drugs, CSD officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
A total of six packets of suspected heroin wrapped in plastic sheets were discharged in Ng's stool twice on Sunday (April 16).
Investigations by the CSD into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Ng are continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesman said there were 88 seizures of dangerous drugs in 2005, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Issued at HKT 13:01
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