HONG KONG: The problem of cross-boundary drug abuse among Hong Kong youth is worsening and prevention is the key to tackle it, social workers warned.

According to the Security Bureau, about 13 percent of the 2,729 teenagers below 21 were reported to have taken drugs on the mainland in the first three quarters last year.

Despite a slight drop in the figure from the same period of 2007, a social worker experienced in dealing with young drug abusers said this does not imply improvement.

"Teenagers take drugs when they have fun occasionally on the mainland, but some of them who become habitual users would stay in Hong Kong for more frequent abuse," said Paul Lo Po-sing, team leader of ELCHK, North District Youth Outreaching Social Working.

He added co-operation between the mainland and SAR enforcement authorities has helped to suppress the problem.

However, places just across the border, especially Shenzhen, are still a great temptation to youngsters. They can participate in wide ranging activities in a larger place that costs less.

"More drugs are available in Shenzhen. It's also more convenient to go to mainland now," Lo said.

Unlike the Home Return Permit in the past, the current card takes no printed record when anyone travels to or from the mainland.

"Parents always don't know their children have left Hong Kong, which gives more freedom to the young addicts," the social worker added. Those living near to the border show a higher tendency.

The teenagers, mostly aged 15 to 19, once looked for ecstasy in groups at discos and karaoke lounges during weekends or before holidays despite the fact many of these mainland distractions have been broken by the authorities in recent years.

Daniel Shek Tan-lei, chairman of the Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN) (an advisory body to the government), pointed out an added reason for abusing drugs on the other side of the border - lighter punishment for offenders.

For Hongkongers, first time offenders arrested for drug abuse are punished by administrative detention of 15 days and a 2,000-yuan fine. Repeat offenders will receive compulsory addiction treatment in a rehabilitation center for three to six months.

Under SAR law, any person arrested for taking drugs faces a fine of HK$1 million and imprisonment for seven years.

"It's also difficult for social workers to help these teenagers outside Hong Kong as their professional qualification is only valid in the city," Shek said.

The experts found it difficult to help young drug addicts since most are unmotivated. "They don't think they are taking drugs and are addicted to it, especially the immature adolescents who rebel against adults," Lo said. "Our role is not only to keep them away from drugs, but also to help them grow and develop their talents so that they would not use drugs as a means for self-recognition."

It takes time to instill them with proper attitudes. The heavy workload of social workers strains that support.

Since counseling is an effective way to beat drug abuse, Lo hopes social workers can be made aware of the profile of young drug addicts arrested on the mainland, in order to provide assistance.

Shek also found early intervention is necessary to help teenagers. He revealed the ACAN is considering introducing topics about drugs and correct values in the formal curriculum.

As for the possibility of introducing extra-territorial effects to the offence of consumption of drugs, Shek said this would involve sensitive legal issues and there must be public support to do so.

The SAR government will launch public consultations later this year.

(HK Edition 03/26/2009 page1)