PUBLIC ORDER
of a wider range of drugs. For example, in late 1991-early 1992 there was an emergence of heroin laced with methylamphetamine, two drugs of opposite physiological effect, one a narcotic analgesic, the other a central nervous stimulant. The advantage of automated analytical systems has been recognised and assay of heroin is now fully automated. In addition, considerable efforts have been directed towards improving work flow and intelligence gathering by the use of computers so that drug trends can be more closely monitored and the relevant authorities more quickly alerted and appropriate legislation eventuated to control any changing drug abuse situation.
In December the Forensic Science Division vacated its dispersed Police Headquarters locations to join its sister division, Analytical and Advisory Services, in a new custom-built Government Laboratory complex, in Ho Man Tin. The co-ordination of resources and vastly improved facilities resulting from the move will herald a new era in the progress of forensic analysis in Hong Kong.
Immigration Department
By controlling entry into Hong Kong, the Immigration Department plays an important role in maintaining law and order.
Through examination at control points and vetting of visa applications, undesirable persons including international criminals and terrorists are detected and refused entry into Hong Kong. In 1992, 21 662 such travellers and persons not in possession of proper documentation were refused permission to land and 2 477 persons were refused visas.
Detection of Forged Travel Documents
During the year, a total of 2 840 forged travel documents were detected, representing an increase of 1.68 per cent on the 2 793 in 1991.
Sustained efforts were required to guard against the upsurge in the use of forged travel documents by illegal immigrants and travellers. Intelligence on forgery was collected and quickly disseminated. There was frequent contact with other local and overseas law enforcement agencies and consulates, and special operations are mounted against forgery syndicates.
Interception of Wanted Persons
During the year, 101 055 persons were intercepted at immigration control points and immigration and registration of persons offices. Of these, 654 were wanted in connection with murder cases, 4 373 were suspected robbers, 52 455 were involved in the trafficking of dangerous drugs and 36 403 were involved in other criminal offences. In addition, 239 known or suspected terrorists were identified at points of entry.
Illegal Immigration
The availability of employment opportunities in Hong Kong continued to attract large numbers of illegal immigrants to the territory. The lower wages accepted by those immigrants encouraged unscrupulous employers to offer them employment. Frequent checks were therefore conducted at target locations, including construction sites, factories, restaurants and other places of employment. Illegal immigrants arrested at these places were prosecuted and sentenced to imprisonment before they were repatriated to their
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