The Correctional Services Department today clarified that an allegation made by a member of the public on social media regarding corporal punishment on a person in custody is false.

The department made the statement in response to the claim, which alleged that a correctional officer ordered a person in custody in Pik Uk Correctional Institution to undergo foot drills for two consecutive days for more than four hours in total.

It said an investigation, which was immediately conducted after it learnt of the allegation last night, proved that the claim is false.

The department pointed out that the person lodged the malicious allegation on social media and disclosed the appearance and the personal data of the correctional officer concerned. It noted that this is an attempt to undermine the confidence and integrity of all correctional officers.

It is not the first time that this individual has lodged malicious allegations against the correctional officer, the department pointed out.

The department has referred the matter to other law enforcement agencies for follow-up.

It stressed that correctional officers will enforce the authority empowered by the law with perseverance, ensure the order and discipline of correctional institutions and not be deterred by any malicious allegation and attack.

It is also committed to ensuring a safe and secure custodial environment and upholding the principal of equality in managing all people in custody, regardless of their background and race, the department added.