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to the laboratory involving either dangerous drugs or controlled pharmaceutical prepara- tions has increased by 70 per cent. Similarly, the number of cases submitted for toxicology analysis escalated by 43 per cent.
Some 40 scenes were attended in 1994 by staff from the two controlled drugs sections, for the purpose of providing scientific opinion on illicit drug manufacturing processes and advising on items to be seized for laboratory examination.
There is a constant commitment within the Forensic Science Division to keep analytical methods under review, and refine and make more rigorous quality assurance procedures, in keeping with the ever higher levels of accuracy and precision which modern technology provides. In line with the trend worldwide, the division is moving towards standardisation and full accreditation of its practices and procedures, which will serve the vital purpose of creating credibility and accountability in the eyes of the courts and, just as importantly, the eyes of the public.
Immigration Department
By controlling entry to Hong Kong, the Immigration Department plays an important role in maintaining law and order.
Through examination at control points and the vetting of visa applications, undesirable persons, including international criminals and terrorists, are detected and denied entry. In 1994, 22 927 such travellers and persons not in possession of proper documentation were refused permission to land and 2 722 persons were refused visas.
Detection of Forged Travel Documents
A total of 2 465 forged travel documents were detected during the year, representing an increase of five per cent on the 2 347 detected in 1993.
Strict measures were taken to guard against the use of forged travel documents by travellers, as well as illegal immigrants. Intelligence on forgery activities was collected and quickly disseminated. Frequent contacts with local and overseas law enforcement agencies and consulates were maintained. Special operations were mounted against forgery syndicates.
Interception of Wanted Persons
During the year, 112 550 persons were intercepted at immigration control points, and immigration and registration of persons offices. Of these, 1 659 were wanted in connection with murder cases, 2 257 were suspected robbers, 48 660 were suspected of involvement in the trafficking of dangerous drugs and 44 765 were wanted in connection with other criminal offences. In addition, 153 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 these immigrants encouraged unscrupulous employers to offer them employment. With the formation of a task force, more frequent checks were conducted at targeted locations, including construction sites, factories, restaurants and other places of employment.