Govt proposes prison rule changes citing national security risks
發佈日期: 2025-07-03 23:52
TVB News
The government is proposing amendments to the Prison Rules, empowering the Correctional Services Department to restrict visits that do not align with national security or other specified purposes.
Under the proposed rules, all inmate visits, including those by lawyers, doctors or religious ministers must serve legitimate purposes such as rehabilitation or maintaining order.
The government cited past cases where individuals used "humanitarian visits" as a cover to subtly influence inmates and incite hostility towards authorities and the central government.
The proposal also suggests scrapping the right of remand inmates to wear personal clothing, to prevent spreading political messages through attire.
Another plan is to abolish "private meals" for those awaiting trial, meaning food or alcoholic beverages brought from outside, in case of security risks.
Under the proposal, obstructing correctional officers may result in a fine of up to 2,000 dollars and up to six months in prison.
Officers may be authorised to use firearms to stop escape attempts or related acts.
