Less Czechs in foreign prisons overall, more on account of drugs

The number of Czech citizens in foreign prisons decreased last year, while the percentage of those convicted of drug smuggling increased. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported on Friday that there were 623 Czechs either in custody or serving prison sentences abroad at the end of 2009, which marks a decrease of 125 people compared with the previous year. Of those, 103 were jailed for drug-related offences, particularly in Latin America. The largest single group of Czech prisoners was in Peru, where there were 19. According to the ministry, the true number of Czechs in foreign detention may be as much as five times higher, as consulates are not necessarily informed of each case.