Law change in works after indy activist fled

Marcus Lum

The Correctional Services Department is considering seeking law amendments to prohibit individuals under supervision orders from leaving Hong Kong, according to commissioner Wong Kwok-hing.

Wong's remarks come in the wake of former pro-independence student activist Tony Chung Hon-lam, who had been placed under supervision order after serving a prison sentence of three years and seven months. Chung was granted permission for a short trip to Japan in December but instead fled to London to seek political asylum.

Wong said his department is actively exploring the possibility of amending laws, although he refrained from providing details, citing ongoing studies.

He also reported a significant increase in new admissions to correctional institutions last year, with the over 17,200 representing a 30 percent year-on-year rise.

Their average daily penal population rose from 7,600 in 2022 to around 8,500, while the average daily occupancy rate also increased from 67 to 75 percent.

The average daily remand population hit a new high since 2000, with 3,096 people in custody, 16 percent up on 2022.

The number of admissions relating to offenses linked to black-clad violence and violations of the national security law was 950, 15 percent up on 829 in 2022.

"The number of individuals in custody involved in black-clad violence and contravention of the national security law was 776, a 49 percent increase compared to 522 as of December 31, 2022," Wong said.

To alleviate the pressure on Lai Chi Kok reception center, Stanley Prison and Tung Tau Correctional Institution have been used to admit adult males.

In mid-2024, partial redevelopment of the Lai Chi Kok center is expected, increasing its capacity for adult males by 410 places.

The department is expected to hire 55 officers this year and will continue to recruit assistant officers II based on needs.

Also upcoming is the launch of a new e-ordering service, which will allow relatives and friends to purchase items for inmates via its website or mobile app.

Various new systems, such as the "person in custody integrated intelligent communication system," "electric locks security system" and "smart health sensing system," will be installed in different correctional institutions this year.

The department is commitment to innovative technology, with Wong citing the recent implementation of the "Robotic dog patrol system" at Shek Pik Prison.