Two new anti-drug groups launched

Two community teams aimed at fighting drug abuse were established yesterday.

The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) set up the two teams at "Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing" and "Sai Kung and Wong Tai Sin", in keeping with Chief Executive Donald Tsang's outline for combating youth drug abuse announced on July 7. Anti-drug hotlines will be set up in the community. Each team is comprised of six outreach social workers, experienced in dealing with young people. They will connect with schools, police, lawyers, psychiatrists in their efforts to help young abusers.

In schools, senior secondary students, especially prefects, will be trained as anti-drugs ambassadors, who will help to combat drug use by stimulating discussion and the sharing of positive life attitudes among their peers.

Owners group found responsible for deaths

The incorporated owners corporation of Cornwall Court was found responsible by the Kowloon City Court for the deaths of two firemen last August. The chairman of the corporation, Chung Wai-ning, and the building management Mei Ning Wai Building Service were also found guilty for locking the means of escape of the building on Nathan Road, Mong Kok. Deputy magistrate Chan Ka-sing called the offence, which carries the maximum penalty of HK$100,000, serious. Sentencing was adjourned to next Friday. Some 55 people were injured in the fire.

Suspect faces four counts of murder

The man charged in the murder of an entire family of four appeared in Fanling Court yesterday. The suspect, 42, has the surnamed Xu. He faces four counts of murder. The prosecution alleged Xu killed the family of four surnamed Tam in Ping Che village, and buried the bodies in a trench outside Tam's home. Xu and Tam were cousins. Police found the bodies of the victims covered in concrete and police are continuing to search for the vendor of the concrete. The 43-year-old Tam died after being stabbed. His 34-year-old wife and 10-year-old daughter were suffocated. The cause of death of the 7-year-old daughter is not confirmed. The hearing continues on Monday.

China Daily - Agencies

(HK Edition 07/10/2009 page1)