Gov’t seeks heavier sentences for 4 people – including prison guard – convicted of wounding inmate

Government prosecutors have requested more severe sentences for four individuals implicated in an assault on a prisoner, including a correctional officer who inflicted the wound by inserting a stick into the victim's rectum at Pik Uk Correctional Institution. The Department of Justice filed an appeal against the sentences in connection with the December 2023 incident.

In August, four defendants were sentenced for wounding with intent to cause serious harm. Tam Lik-chung, a former assistant officer, received the longest term of three years, with District Court Judge Frankie Yiu stating he had ordered other inmates to participate in the attack. Tam had admitted guilt alongside inmate Ho Lik-wun, who received four months in prison.

Two other inmates, Bosco Lee and Brian Lam, were convicted after trial for the same charge and were given six months in jail each. Prison officer Kwok Siu-fai was found not guilty of misconduct in public office. Inmate Li Yuxuan was also acquitted of the wounding charge. The assault occurred when Tam and Kwok were playing bingo in an activity room.

An 18-year-old inmate threw baby powder on Tam before the prison officer allegedly rammed a wooden stick into the victim's rectum multiple times through his underwear. The victim was hospitalized for surgery and temporarily required a stoma bag. The victim disclosed the nature of his injuries to his family two weeks following the attack.