I got arrested for drug trafficking and I have been on remand for over two years now. I am very grateful for this opportunity to share my story, hoping my experience will reach young people and change their way of life and not attempt drug trafficking or drug use.
I grew up in a low-income family. I have five siblings with me being the youngest. We rarely talked and I didn’t want to listen to my parents. When I was in school, I was very naughty. I would call the school to report myself sick and then go hang out in Internet cafes, arcades, or pool halls.
I met some friends during this period, and eventually joined a gang. We did a lot of illegal things. Our gang boss would take us around to hang out and play.
One time, he took us out for drinks at a bar, and supplied us with a small dosage of drugs, persuading us that it would make us happy and make us forget sad things. I became addicted to a point where I owed them money. I was pressured to engage in drug trafficking in order to repay the loan.
I was arrested by the police while drug trafficking and sent to Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre.
Neither the gang nor the boss has visited me since I entered the correctional institution. Only my family came to visit me and helped me to hire a lawyer. I regret the things I’ve done, and for hurting my family. I was very confused and lost my freedom. I was alone every time I went back to my cell. I had no one to talk to.
My situation has affected my family’s emotions. They’re always worrying about my life here. My experience will also have a negative impact on my career and life in the future. I used to be in a sullen mood unable to go anywhere freely, instead, I was trapped inside a room surrounded by four walls.
He was waiting for us to get addicted so that we would need to rely on him for drug supply and he could earn more money.
I finally realized that I was wrong. I was saddened and wept when I found out how much my family has done for me. I couldn’t stop blaming myself for the illegal things I committed. I’m guilty and sincerely repent for my wrongdoing. I don’t want my family to suffer and worry about me. I have since come to follow Jesus, He has changed me. I hope to become a priest one day and help others to change their lives for the better.
I want to stress that there is no free lunch in this world. You won’t be able to refuse to work for them when the time comes. Those gang leaders treat you out for drinks and free food with a hidden agenda. What was the real reason for giving us free drugs? He was waiting for us to get addicted so that we would need to rely on him for drug supply and he could earn more money. All of them will use to you earn money through illegal activities. Do you think they will find ways to help you, visit you in prison, or even find you a lawyer if you get caught? I believe only your family will help you.
If you fall into drugs, you will lose yourself. Your health will suffer, and you could have permanent brain damage or even lead to death. So think clearly and don’t do something that you will regret.
We can communicate with our family when problems arise. Only our family will never leave us behind. They will do their best to help us choose the right path. I hope that my story will have a positive effect on someone’s life and serve as a warning. Choose the right path.
Note: This letter has been translated from its original in Chinese and edited to improve readability.