********************************************************
Correctional officers today (January 29) conducted a large-scale search operation in Pak Sha Wan Correctional Institution (PSWCI).
A total of 70 officers from the Stanley area were deployed in the operation which was mounted in response to a query on a prisoner's routine drug screening urine test. The search was carried out smoothly with unauthorised articles including betting notes, self-made wine, and gambling instruments from the institution's workshops and dormitories being seized.
Two prisoners were put on disciplinary report under Prison Rule 61 for possession of unauthorised articles while three others were removed from normal association under Prison Rule 68B. The investigation is still under way.
Commenting on the operation, a department spokesperson said CSD was committed to providing a drug-free environment to all people in CSD custody. "We take every measure to forestall any possible smuggling of dangerous drugs and eradicate any presence of dangerous drugs in penal institutions," the spokesperson said.
"All cases of seizure of suspected dangerous drugs will be reported to the Police for investigation and action," the spokesperson added.
There were 115 seizures of dangerous drugs in 2006, with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Monday, January 29, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:48
NNNN