CSD slams Amnesty International report as baseless smear

Hong Kong's Correctional Services Department has strongly condemned a report by Amnesty International on prisoner conditions, calling it factually incorrect and a malicious smear.

In a statement on Thursday, a department spokesperson denounced the report by what it labeled an "anti-China organization," saying it relied on lies from individuals who violated supervision orders, fled overseas and endangered national security.

The spokesperson criticized Amnesty for not fully publishing the department's written response in its report, accusing it of presenting a one-sided view with malicious intent.

The spokesperson noted that Amnesty International has a history of fabricating false claims to smear the Hong Kong SAR government, citing a previous instance where the organization falsely claimed a Uyghur student had disappeared in Hong Kong and blamed the SAR government, when in fact the individual had never entered or been denied entry to Hong Kong. "We must refute its false allegations point by point to set the record straight," the spokesperson said.

The department emphasized it maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward physical abuse and ensures custodial environments are secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy. It described allegations of widespread physical violence, extreme summer temperatures with poor ventilation, solitary confinement and poor hygiene as completely unfounded.

The department outlined measures taken to improve conditions, including installing safety and industrial fans, upgrading ventilation systems, and providing hand fans and cooling towels to inmates during hot weather. It also detailed strict compliance with legal requirements regarding the use of force.

Regarding solitary confinement, the department said any suspension of association between inmates is done lawfully, based on individual cases and consistent with practices in other jurisdictions, sometimes at the inmate's own request.

The department stated it maintains high cleaning standards with daily inspections and regular disinfection. Multiple complaint mechanisms exist for inmates, including visits by justices of the peace.

The spokesperson concluded that the department would continue to perform its duties strictly in accordance with the law, ensuring institutional security while safeguarding inmates' rights, dignity and well-being.