*****************************************
The Correctional Services Department 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 (February 16).
"The department is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for all people in its custody", the spokesperson said.
The comments followed the case of a remand prisoner swallowing dangerous drugs and later discharging them in her stool.
Surnamed Lee, the 40-year-old remand prisoner was admitted to Tai Lam Centre for Women (TLCW) on February 12 on a charge of possession of a dangerous drug.
Acting on information that Lee might have swallowed some drugs before her admission, department officers put her in an isolation cell for close observation.
Officers found five packets of suspected dormicum wrapped in plastic sheets in Lee's stool yesterday and another seven packets this morning.
An investigation by the department into whether more dangerous drugs are still concealed in Lee is continuing.
The case has been reported to the Police.
The spokesperson said there were 115 seizures of dangerous drugs last year (2006), with the seizures mainly in the reception centres.
Ends/Friday, February 16, 2007
Issued at HKT 12:15
NNNN