HONG KONG

POLICE VISION
"We strive to become one of the best youth organizations in Hong Kong and to assist Hong Kong
remaining as one of the safest and most stable societies in the world"

MISSION
"To develop our members to work in partnership with the community and other agencies to fight
against crime. We are committed to train our members and to equip them with necessary abilities as
future leaders in serving our community. We promote positive peer influence”

MOTTO
WE SERVE WITH PRIDE AND CARE

 ESTABLISHED ON: MAY 1, 1844

 HEAD OF GOVERNMENT: CHIEF EXECUTIVE JOHN LEE KA-CHUI
 COMMISSIONER OF POLICE: RAYMOND SIU
 HEADQUARTER: 1 ARSENAL STREET, WAN CHAI, HONG KONG

The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), also known as the Hong Kong Police (HKP), is the largest discipline
service under the Security Bureau of Hong Kong. It is the world's second, and Asia's first, police
agency to operate with a modern policing system It was formed on 1 May 1844 by the British Hong
Kong government with a strength of 32 officers. In 1969, Queen Elizabeth II granted the 'Royal' prefix
and the HKPF became the "Royal Hong Kong Police Force". Following the transfer of sovereignty in
1997, the Royal Hong Kong Police Force was renamed Hong Kong Police Force

HISTORY
The year 1844 saw the enactment of the first Police Ordinance in Hong Kong and the formal
establishment of the Hong Kong Police Force. This very first Chapter traces the birth of the predecessor
of the modern day Hong Kong Police Force. From the 1840s when there were only a few villages on the
coast on Hong Kong Island to the more populous Hong Kong in the post-World War II period, there had
been a strong need for the city to set up a structured and organized police force in order to address the
growingly pertinent issues of personal safety and law and order.

STRUCTURE
The Force is commanded by the Commissioner of Police who is assisted by three Deputy
Commissioners. One Deputy Commissioner supervises all operational matters and one is responsible
for the direction and co-ordination of the management of the Force, including personnel,training and
management services. The third one is tasked with safeguarding national security.

For daily policing, the whole Hong Kong territory is delineated into six Police Regions:
 A.Hong Kong Island
B.Kowloon East
C.Kowloon West
D.New Territories North
E.New Territories South; and
F.Marine.
The Force Headquarters is made up of six departments:

1).DEPARTMENT (OPERATION)
The Operations Department, comprising Operations Wing, Support Wing and six Police Regions, is
responsible for different operational matters.
• Operations Wing is the Force policy holder of various operational issues including counter-
terrorism, internal security, boundary security, bomb disposal, management of major events/
incidents, etc.
• Support Wing oversees the Support Branch and Traffic Branch Headquarters (TBHQ). The
Support Branch is responsible for the formulation and execution of policies in relation to
operational support and occupational safety and health for both the regular and auxiliary
Forces. It is also responsible for various licensing functions of the Force and offering assistance
to other relevant licensing authorities.
2).DEPARTMENT (CRIME AND SECURITY)
The Crime and Security Department is responsible for Force policies regarding the prevention and
investigation of crimes and security matters.
• The Crime Wing consists of a number of operational bureau and specialized support units. The
operational bureau deal with specific areas of criminal activities, whereas the specialized
support units provide support services to various operational units in the Force and handle
policy matters on issues including child abuse, domestic violence and witness protection.
• The Security Wing provides VIP protection, liaises with consulates and co-ordinates security
operations, including counter-terrorism and related training.
3).DEPARTMENT (PERSONNEL AND TRAINING)
The Personnel Wing (P Wing) is responsible for all core human resources
management functions, including recruitment, promotion, career development,
conditions of service, discipline, staff relations and welfare matters.
• Hong Kong Police college is responsible for all matters relating to training within the Hong Kong
Police except internal security, auxiliary and marine Police training. Training provided by the
Police college includes recruit and continuation training, crime investigation training, police
driver training and weapon tactics training.
4).DEPARTMENT (MANAGEMENT SERVICES)
The Management Services Department is underpinned by the Information Systems Wing as well as the
Service Quality Wing.
• The Information Systems Wing is comprised of the Digital Policing Services Bureau, Innovation
and Solution Lab (ISLAB), Information Technology Branch and Communications Branch.
• The Digital Policing Services formulates and co-ordinates the digital policing blueprint
and initiatives and is also responsible for information security of the Force. It assists the
Force to enhance its operational efficiency, optimize work processes and provide more
convenient policing services through delivery of a wide range of digital solutions such as
e-services and mobile applications.
• The ISLAB is responsible for strengthening the Force’s innovation and technology
application capability in this digital age.
• The Information Technology Branch is responsible for the planning, development,
implementation and maintenance of information technology application systems,
covering infrastructure and facility, administration systems, operation communications
solutions and operations systems, to provide excellent support to the daily operation of
the Force and all Force members.
5).DEPARTMENT (FINANCE, ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING)
• The Finance Wing is responsible for the financial management, forensic accounting and
support services, stores management and internal audit of the Force. The Administration Wing
looks after the management of civilian staff and Force establishment matters. The Planning
and Development Branch (P&D) is responsible for the strategic property planning of the Force.
 The P&D plans and develops the existing and future Police buildings and facilities to meet public
expectation and promote sustainable development through monitoring the infrastructural
development and population growth in Hong Kong and the operational needs of the Force.
6).DEPARTMENT (NATIONAL SECURITY)
The National Security Department (NSD) is responsible for collecting and analysing intelligence and
information concerning national security; planning, coordinating and enforcing measures and
operations for safeguarding national security; investigating offenses endangering national security;
conducting counter-interference investigation and national security review; carrying out tasks of
safeguarding national security assigned by the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the
HKSAR; and performing other duties and functions necessary for the enforcement of the National
Security Law.

WORKS OF HONG KONG POLICE FORCE

The Hong Kong Police Force has a rich history, dating back to its formation in 1844. Over the years, it
has evolved from an organization with a broad-based role (including fire-fighting, prisons, and
immigration) to a modern and efficient police service.
1. Safeguarding National Security: The Force plays a crucial role in ensuring national security within
Hong Kong. It works to prevent and address threats to the country’s safety and stability.
2. Protecting Life and Property: The police are dedicated to safeguarding the lives and property of
residents. They respond to emergencies, enforce safety regulations, and maintain order during crises.
3. Preventing and Detecting Crime: The Force actively investigates criminal activities, apprehends
offenders, and prevents crimes from occurring. This includes everything from petty theft to serious
offenses.
4. Maintaining Law and Order: Police officers work tirelessly to maintain peace and order in the
community. They handle public disturbances, traffic management, and other law enforcement duties.
5. Community Engagement: The Hong Kong Police Force strives to build strong ties with the
community. They collaborate with citizens, local organizations, and other agencies to address concerns
and maintain public trust.
6.Excellence and Professionalism: The Force aims for excellence in all aspects of its work. This includes
continuous training, adopting modern policing techniques, and upholding high standards of
professionalism.
7. Public Confidence: The police work diligently to maintain public confidence in their abilities. By
ensuring transparency, accountability, and fair treatment, they contribute to Hong Kong’s reputation
as one of the safest and most stable societies in the world

LEGAL TRADITIONS
The legal tradition of the Hong Kong Police Force is based on a combination of common law principles
and statutory enactments. Hong Kong, as a former British colony, inherited the common law legal
system from the United Kingdom. This legal tradition emphasizes the role of judicial precedent and the
application of law developed through court decisions over time.
Key aspects of the legal tradition of the Hong Kong Police Force include:

1. Common Law: Common law principles form the foundation of the legal system in Hong Kong,
including its policing practices. These principles are derived from judicial decisions and precedents
established by courts in Hong Kong and, historically, by English courts.

2. Statutory Law: In addition to common law principles, the legal framework governing the operations
and conduct of the Hong Kong Police Force is supplemented by statutory enactments. These include
laws passed by the Legislative Council of Hong Kong and regulations issued by government agencies.

3. Basic Law: The Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) serves as the
constitutional document for Hong Kong, providing the framework for its legal system. It outlines the
rights and freedoms of residents, the structure of the government, and the relationship between Hong
Kong and the central government of China. While the Basic Law preserves many aspects of the
common law system, it also incorporates elements of Chinese legal principles.
4. Police Force Ordinance: The Police Force Ordinance is a key piece of legislation that governs the
establishment, organization, powers, duties, and discipline of the Hong Kong Police Force. It sets out
the legal framework within which the police operate and provides guidelines for their conduct.

5. Code of Conduct: The Hong Kong Police Force operates under a Code of Conduct that sets out the
ethical standards and professional behavior expected of its officers. This code reflects the principles of
integrity, impartiality, accountability, and respect for human rights.

6. Judicial Oversight: The actions of the Hong Kong Police Force are subject to judicial oversight, with
courts having the authority to review the legality of police actions and decisions. This ensures
accountability and upholds the rule of law.

GOVERNMENT
Under its constitutional document, the Basic Law, Hong Kong is an autonomous Special Administrative
Region(SAR) of the People's Republic of China, except in defence and foreign affairs.

The government of Hong Kong operates within the framework of the "One Country, Two Systems"
principle, which was established after the transfer of sovereignty from the United Kingdom to China in
1997. Under this principle, Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy in its governance, with its
own legal system, currency, immigration controls, and legislative and executive branches.

1. Executive Council (ExCo): The Executive Council is the highest policy-making body in Hong Kong. It
advises the Chief Executive on government policies and the administration of Hong Kong. Members of
the Executive Council are appointed by the Chief Executive.

2. Legislative Council (LegCo): The Legislative Council is the unicameral legislative body of Hong Kong.
It is responsible for enacting laws, approving budgets, and monitoring the government's performance.
Members of the Legislative Council are elected through various methods, including geographical
constituencies, functional constituencies, and the Election Committee.

3. Judiciary: The judiciary in Hong Kong is independent and upholds the rule of law. It interprets and
applies the Basic Law and other laws in the HKSAR. The Court of Final Appeal is the highest appellate
court in Hong Kong.

4. District Councils: District Councils are local councils responsible for advising the government on local
issues and providing services to the community. Members of District Councils are elected through
direct elections.

5. Civil Service: The civil service of Hong Kong is responsible for implementing government policies and
delivering public services. It operates independently of political influence and is governed by the Civil
Service Bureau.

CONSTITUTION AND LAWS

The Basic Law was adopted at the Third Session of the Seventh National People's Congress on 4 April
1990 and was officially promulgated on the same day. The Basic Law is a constitutional document of
the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) which sets out clearly the country's basic policies
regarding Hong Kong. It enshrines within a legal document the important concepts of "one country,
two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy. It also
prescribes the various systems to be practised in the HKSAR and sets out the blueprint for the HKSAR's
future development.
The Basic Law has been in effect since 1 July 1997. It safeguards the prosperity and stability of Hong
Kong and also protects the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents. It is important for Hong Kong
people, the Mainland residents, as well as people in other countries to get to know the Basic Law.
The Basic Law consists of:
1. The full text of the Basic Law which comprises a total of nine chapters with 160 articles;
 2. Annex I, which sets out the method for the selection of the Chief Executive of the HKSAR;
3. Annex II, which sets out the method for the formation of the Legislative Council of the HKSAR
and its voting procedures; and
4. Annex III, which sets out the national laws to be applied in the HKSAR.

CRIME POLICY
1. The Arrest
-Pursuant to Section 50 of the Police Force Ordinance (Cap. 232), police officers can arrest any person
who he/she reasonably believes will be charged with, or whom he/she reasonably suspects of being
guilty of any offence for which the sentence is fixed by law
-The person under arrest will be brought before the Duty Officer of the police station covering the
district or area where the arrest took place.
-At the station, the arrested person will be registered as being arrested, photograph of the arrested
person and his/her fingerprints will be taken for the Police records.
2. Bail
-Police Bail
Depending on the nature of the offence alleged to have been committed by the suspect, the police can
release the suspect on bail. If a suspect has been formally charged of an offence, bail is usually
extended until the first court hearing.For serious crimes, police bail will almost always be refused, and
the decision will be left to the court to make the decision.
-Court Bail
Court Bail is usually decided at a Magistrates' Courts where the case is first heard. In some
circumstances, an application for court bail can be heard before the High Court.
3. The Investigation
-The investigation is the process by which the Police gathers evidence and interrogate witnesses to
determine whether a crime has been committed and, if a crime has been committed who is
responsible for having committed the crime. The rule of thumb is, the more serious the crime is, the
longer the investigation will take.
4. Statement under Caution
-As part of their investigation, the Police will take a statement from the arrested person. The police
officer taking a statement from an arrested person must caution him or her as follows:
"You are not obliged to say anything unless you wish to do so but whatever you say will be put into
writing and may be given in evidence."

5. Criminal Charge(s)
-At the end of an investigation, one of two things can happen: either the case is closed due to a lack of
evidence or a criminal charge is laid on a suspected or arrested person.
6. First Initial Hearing
-A person accused of an offence will usually be brought to a Magistrates Courts for the first hearing.
The location of the Magistrates' Court will generally depend on where the alleged offence took place. If
the prosecution needs more time to investigate or seek legal advice, or if it decides to transfer the case
for trial in a higher court, then it will ask for an adjournment.
7. The Trial
-A trial is the presentation of evidence and the arguments to the Court. In a criminal trial, the
prosecution (the Hong Kong Department of Justice) tries to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the
Defendant committed the crime that he has been charged with. The Defendant is not required to put
forward a defence.
8. The Verdict
-At the end of the trial, the Court must render a verdict: guilty or not guilty.
-Defendant Found Guilty
If the Defendant is found guilty, the court will then move to sentencing. As mentioned above, there are
times when the court will need to adjourn the case to further consider what sentence should be
imposed.
-Defendant Found Not Guilty
If the Defendant is found not guilty, the Court will end the proceedings and the Defendant can go back
to living his/her live normal.
As a victim or witness of crime you have the right to:
 1. be treated with courtesy, compassion, sensitivity and respect for your personal dignity and
privacy;
2. so far as practicable, be interviewed by police at a place and time convenient to you ;
3. be accompanied by your legal representative during an interview with the police;
4. receive prompt medical attention in respect of injuries sustained in the commission of a crime,
or should you feel unwell;
5. obtain refreshments at your own expense;
6. keep certain particulars unconnected to the investigation confidential, and have data provided
to police handled in accordance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance;
7. automatically be interviewed by an officer of the same sex in all cases of a sexual nature;
8. request consideration of the use of a one-way viewing facility at an identification parade;
9. request a copy of any written statement you have made to police (or video tape recording of
your interview where applicable);
10. be given a Crime Investigation Unit Contact Card containing the office telephone number of the
responsible officer of the case;
11. have property belonging to you returned to you at the earliest opportunity once not required in
connection with the investigation;
12. be informed of police and court procedures should you request such information, and be
informed of the progress and result of the investigation expeditiously;
13. be informed of your role in, and the procedures of, the prosecution process;
14. be informed of the date and location of any subsequent court hearing;
15. be provided with protective measures by the police in accordance with their evaluation of any
threat, and be considered for inclusion in the Witness Protection Programme, should you so
wish;
16. be advised of appropriate agencies which may be able to assist you, such as the Social Welfare
Department, the Legal Aid Department and the Consumer Council;
17. juveniles (persons aged under 16) and mentally incapacitated persons will normally be
interviewed in the presence of a parent, guardian or other appropriate adults, except if a delay
would cause undue hindrance to the furtherance of justice or might cause harm to others; and
18. mentally incapacitated persons as well as child witnesses of cases of sexual abuse, cruelty,
assault or a threat of injury to others, may:
1. request consideration be given for their interviews video recorded for the purpose of
tendering as evidence in court or may give evidence through live television link during
the court trial; and
be accompanied by a support person when giving evidence in court, providing that person is not
involved in the case.

CORRECTIONS
The Correctional Services Department (CSD) manages a variety of correctional facilities. Here are the
different types:
1. Prisons: These are correctional institutions where adult offenders serve their sentences. There
are both male and female prisons, each with different security levels:
• Maximum Security: For high-risk offenders.
• Medium Security: For those with moderate risk.
• Minimum Security: For lower-risk inmates.
2. Rehabilitation Centers: These facilities focus on rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
They cater to both adult and young offenders.
3. Halfway Houses: Transitional residences for offenders nearing the end of their sentences.
4. Detention Centers And Training Centers: Specifically for young male offenders.
5. Custodial Wards in Public Hospitals: These are within hospitals and serve as correctional
facilities for inmates requiring medical care.
 CRIME RATE

CRIME ISSUES
COMMON CRIMES COMMITTED IN HONG KONG:
A. Theft
-The surge in theft cases in Hong Kong can be attributed to a combination of factors related to
increased activity, relaxed Covid-19 measures
B. Assaults
-Factors contributing to the rise in assault cases can be multifaceted, including social, economic, and
cultural dynamics.
C. Vandalism
-The escalation of violence and vandalism in Hong Kong reflects a battle for the soul of the city,
where deeply entrenched political divisions and grievances have spilled over into the streets and public
spaces.

ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE

FROM HIGHEST TO LOWEST

Commissioner's Rank Badge

Deputy Commissioner's Rank Badge

Senior Assistant Commissioner's Rank Badge

Assistant Commissioner's Rank Badge

Chief Superintendent of Police

Senior Superintendent of Police

Superintendent of Police

Chief Inspector of Police

Senior Inspector of Police

Inspector of Police

Probationary Inspector of Police

Station Sergeant

Sergeant

Senior Police Constable

Police Constable

RECRUITMENT PROCESS
 Application: Candidates usually begin by submitting an application form to the Hong Kong Police
Force. This form typically requires personal details, educational background, work experience, and
other relevant information.

 Initial Screening: The applications are screened to ensure that candidates meet the basic eligibility
criteria, such as age, education, and physical fitness requirements.

 Written Examination: Qualified candidates may be required to take a written examination, which
could include sections on general knowledge, language proficiency (English and/or Chinese), and
cognitive abilities.

 Physical Fitness Test: Candidates who pass the written examination may undergo a physical fitness
test to assess their endurance, strength, and agility. This could include tasks such as running, push-
ups, sit-ups, and other exercises.

 Interview: Successful candidates from the previous stages may be invited for an interview. The
interview panel may include senior police officers who assess the candidate's suitability for a
career in law enforcement based on factors such as communication skills, problem-solving ability,
and motivation.

 Background Check and Investigation: Candidates who pass the interview stage may undergo a
thorough background check, which includes verifying employment history, conducting criminal
record checks, and contacting references.

 Medical Examination: Candidates who successfully complete the earlier stages of the recruitment
process may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure that they are physically and
mentally fit for the demands of police work.

 Training: Upon successfully completing all previous stages and passing the medical examination,
candidates may be offered a position in the Hong Kong Police Force and will undergo extensive
training at the Hong Kong Police College. This training typically covers a wide range of topics,
including law, police procedures, firearms training, self-defense, and community policing.
  Probation Period: Newly recruited officers may be placed on probation for a certain period, during
which their performance and suitability for the role are assessed. Upon successful completion of
the probationary period, they may be confirmed in their positions as full-fledged police officers.

SALARY
Constable:
Starting Salary: Around HKD 24,730 per month
Maximum Salary: Progression through pay scales can lead to higher earnings over time.

Sergeant:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 34,850 to HKD 52,540 per month

Senior Sergeant:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 41,095 to HKD 57,675 per month

Station Sergeant:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 47,755 to HKD 64,995 per month

Inspector:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 47,500 to HKD 65,850 per month

Chief Inspector:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 54,310 to HKD 77,385 per month

Senior Inspector:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 61,215 to HKD 90,735 per month

Superintendent:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 69,000 to HKD 90,000+ per month

Senior Superintendent:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 85,000 to HKD 95,000+ per month

Chief Superintendent:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 100,000+ per month

Assistant Commissioner:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 130,000+ per month

Deputy Commissioner:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 150,000+ per month

Commissioner of Police:
Salary Range: Approximately HKD 200,000+ per month

REFERENCE:
Objective / Vision/ Mission | Hong Kong Police Force. (n.d.).

https://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/16_jpc/mission.html

Hong Kong Fact Sheet - The Police | Hong Kong Police Force. (n.d.).

https://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/01_about_us/facts.html