Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok says the youth drug situation showed signs of easing in recent years, but the Government remained committed to fighting the drug problem.

He spoke after visiting the Kowloon West Regional Police Headquarters early this morning, where he was briefed on two operations to fight illegal activities such as drug-related crimes at entertainment establishments. He also observed a Police operation at an upstairs bar in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Mr Lai noted that, in the first quarter, the number of reported young drug abusers aged under 21 fell 24.2%, and 237 young people aged under 21 were arrested for drug-related crimes, a 20.2% decline.

The Government attached great importance to the youth drug abuse problem, he said, adding there was a growing trend of hidden youth drug problems which has increased the difficulties in identifying young drug abusers.

Due to the hidden nature of the way psychotropic substances are consumed and their initial harmful physical effects, it is not easy to tell if someone is taking them. It is important to focus efforts on assisting youth at risk with specific emphasis on early identification and intervention.

Mr Lai said the Narcotics Division would enhance support services for parents to help them identify and deal with youth drug problems. The Government would also step up its anti-drug publicity efforts to promote public awareness of the hidden nature of youth drug abuse.