Police Secretary Inspires New Officers with Call for Iron Will, Compassion, and Insights at Passing-Out Parade

S for S encourages graduates to fulfil duties with "iron will, compassion and insights"

The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, inspected the passing-out parade of 15 probationary inspectors and 248 recruit police constables at the Hong Kong Police College today (January 31) and witnessed them embark to perform the sacred duties of the Police.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Tang said that while times and circumstances, criminal modus operandi and investigative methods are ever-changing, the mission of the Police, their loyalty towards the country and Hong Kong, their determination to safeguard the rule of law, and their pledge to serve the community stand firm and unaltered. He said that police officers, facing various unknowns and challenges daily, should embody three capabilities: "iron will, compassion and insights".

"Iron will" - when confronted with threats and pressure, police officers should remain dedicated and unwavering, committed to resolutely safeguarding national security and upholding the rule of law in Hong Kong. He mentioned that in 2019, many Force members, despite being attacked by rioters and their family members being threatened, remained unyielding and steadfast at their posts, which demonstrated their impregnable "iron will".

"Compassion" - Police officers should enforce the law with impartiality and integrity, while also being compassionate, empathetic and citizen-oriented. He cited that in the aftermath of the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, officers searched for the deceased at the devastating fire scene with their bare hands, striving to keep the bodies intact and recover their identity so their families could bid a proper farewell. "Compassion" is embodied through respecting life, being empathetic for suffering, and upholding professionalism.

"Insights" - In the face of evolving criminal modus operandi and the volatile external environment, police officers should cultivate the ability to foresee opportunities, plan ahead and break new ground. He stated that the Force must leverage new technologies, fresh knowledge and innovative thinking, collaborate across sectors and embrace change. To be future-ready, the Force should possess the insights to identify and adapt to changes, with the devotion to consciously serve the country, the wisdom to uphold principles while pursuing innovation, and the vision to stay vigilant even in times of peace.

Mr Tang said that the Force never stands alone, for it is supported by the staunch backing of the motherland, various departments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all sectors of society. He said he endeavours to safeguard Hong Kong alongside police officers.

In conclusion, he quoted President Xi Jinping's words that it is the solemn duty of the people's police to safeguard national security and social stability and ensure people's happiness and peace. He encouraged the graduates to be "inspirited by iron will, anchored by compassion, guided by insights", adhere to the principle of "With faith, we go farther", and pursue the Force's mission of "Serving Hong Kong with Honour, Duty and Loyalty".

S for S encourages graduates to fulfil duties with "iron will, compassion and insights" Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

S for S encourages graduates to fulfil duties with "iron will, compassion and insights" Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

S for S encourages graduates to fulfil duties with "iron will, compassion and insights" Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

S for S encourages graduates to fulfil duties with "iron will, compassion and insights" Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Correctional officers stop person in custody committing self-harm

Correctional officers stopped a person in custody committing self-harm in Siu Lam Psychiatric Centre yesterday (January 30).

The Siu Lam Psychiatric Centre, Photo source: FB

At 6.34pm yesterday, a 78-year-old female person in custody was found emotionally unstable and banging her head against the lavatory sink inside a hospital ward. Officers at the scene immediately stopped her and called for reinforcement. The person in custody was found conscious. After receiving examination and treatment in the institution hospital, she was referred to a public hospital for further treatment.

A clinical psychologist of the department will follow up on the case.

A spokesman for the Correctional Services Department said, "The department uses all possible measures to prevent persons in custody from attempting suicide or self-harm. These measures include administrative arrangements, improvement of institutional facilities, staff training and first aid services."

The person in custody was convicted for the offence of manslaughter and was detained under a hospital order for psychiatric treatment in September 2024.

The Correctional Services Department, Photo source: reference image