XN000022-1996-04-17 — Page 9

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Release of 47 VMs on recognisance

The Government announced that 47 more Vietnamese migrants (VMs) will be released from detention today (Wednesday).

On April 2, when 207 VMs were released in the wake of a Privy Council judgement, the Government also confirmed that the individual cases of about 40 other VMs were being considered.

"After completing the examination of these cases, the Government has decided to release 47 VMs from detention, since their position examined individually also falls under the terms of the Privy Council judgement," a Government spokesman said.

The 47 VMs will be transferred to Pillar Point Refugee Centre today. The migrants who were released on April 2 will be transferred to Pillar Point gradually.

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CSD heroism commended by Governor

Two CSD Assistant Officer II have been commended by the Governor for their courage and professionalism in the face of a life-threatening situation during last month's hostage drama at High Island Detention Centre (HIDC) for Vietnamese migrants.

Assistant Officer II Wong Fu-shing, who was held hostage for more than 11 hours by a gang of armed Vietnamese migrants who attempted to break out of the North Section of HIDC, was commended for his exceptional courage, fortitude and professionalism in the face of grave personal danger on March 6.

Assistant Officer II Sun Yuk-lun, who sustained serious hand injuries when the VMs stormed the gate and tried to gain entry to the South Section of HIDC, was commended for his gallantry, exceptional dedication to duty and professionalism in thwarting the break-in attempt.

The Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Raymond Lai Ming-kee, today (Wednesday) presented to the two officers with the Governor's commendation and added his personal congratulations to them for composure and devotion to duty.