Correctional Services Department Hosts Christmas Activities for Persons in Custody with Religious Leaders' Support

Persons in custody participate in Christmas activities

The Correctional Services Department has arranged for persons in custody (PICs) to attend activities during the Christmas festive period.

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, Cardinal Stephen Chow, accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner of Correctional Services (Operations and Strategic Development), Mr Leung Ka-lun, visited Stanley Prison and presided at a Christmas mass today (December 25) to share his faith and Christmas blessings with PICs. He also paid a visit to patients in the institution hospital and conveyed his sympathy and support to them.

Moreover, the Archbishop of Hong Kong, the Most Reverend Andrew Chan, presided at a Christmas service in Pak Sha Wan Correctional Institution on December 22 to preach and share religious messages with PICs, whilst extending his care and good wishes.

Through the Correctional Services Chaplain, voluntary chaplains and visitors from religious organisations, a variety of spiritual support services are offered to PICs who wish to participate regardless of their religious affiliation. The services include visits, teaching, counselling, and religious and recreational activities.

Persons in custody participate in Christmas activities Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Persons in custody participate in Christmas activities Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Persons in custody participate in Christmas activities Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Persons in custody participate in Christmas activities Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Correctional officer stops remand person in custody from committing suicide by hanging

A correctional officer stopped a 50-year-old female remand person in custody from committing suicide by hanging in Lo Wu Correctional Institution today (December 25).

At 5.30am today, the correctional officer found the remand person in custody attempting suicide by hanging with a bedsheet tied to a door hinge in the toilet of her dormitory. The officer immediately called for reinforcement to rescue and provide first-aid treatment to her. The remand person in custody was found conscious at the time and was subsequently sent to a public hospital for further treatment.

A clinical psychologist of the Department will follow up on the case.

A spokesman for the Correctional Services Department said, "The department uses all possible measures to prevent persons in custody from attempting suicide or self-harm. These measures include administrative arrangements, improvements of institution facilities, staff training and first-aid services."

The person in custody was remanded for the offence of trafficking in a dangerous drug in August 2024.

Source: AI-found images