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Every measure was taken by the Correctional Services Department to prevent the smuggling of dangerous drugs into, and to eradicate any presence of them, in correctional institutions, a department spokesman said today (May 18).
His comments followed the case of a remand prisoner swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in his stool.
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", he said.
The 50-year-old remand prisoner, surnamed Wong, was admitted to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre (LCKRC) yesterday on a charge of trafficking in a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Wong might have swallowed some dangerous drugs, CSD officers put him in an isolation cell for close observation.
A total of nine packets of suspected dormicum wrapped in plastic sheets were discharged in Wong's stool this afternoon.
Investigations by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Wong 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/Thursday, May 18, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:32
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