Corruption watchdog sees 3pc rise on graft cases last year

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) received 2,058 corruption complaints last year, making a three percent increase compared to the previous year, according to the anti-graft agency.

Among these, 480 complaints targeted government departments, a six percent year-on-year rise, with the police force receiving the highest number of complaints, followed by the Correctional Services Department.

Complaints involving public bodies also surged by 26 percent to 140 cases, with the Hospital Authority accounting for 17 percent of the total. Other notable entities facing corruption allegations included the MTR Corporation and the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

Bernard Charnwut Chan, chairman of the Operations Review Committee, said the fluctuation in complaint numbers is normal and "does not always translate into prosecutions."

He noted that the five-year average for government-related complaints is 548 annually, indicating that 2024’s figures remain relatively low.

Chan added that increased reporting reflects heightened public vigilance, which strengthens oversight over public and private sectors.

ICAC prosecuted 207 individuals, securing convictions against 119 last year.

Among those charged were 16 civil servants accused of corruption or other offenses, while 64 government employees were referred for disciplinary or administrative action.

Private sector complaints remained steady at nearly 1,440 cases, with the building management, construction, and finance and insurance industries recording the highest numbers. 

Notably, complaints in the construction sector surged by 45 percent, from 131 in 2023 to 190 in 2024.

Despite the rise in complaints, Bernard Charnwut Chan reiterated Hong Kong’s robust anti-corruption framework, saying: “There is no evidence of systemic or organized corruption. The overall integrity culture in Hong Kong has not significantly changed over the years.”

Chan Kin-por, chairman of the Advisory Committee on Corruption, highlighted ICAC’s efforts to strengthen international cooperation, including co-hosting the 8th ICAC Symposium with the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities. 

The event unveiled the Hong Kong Declaration on Strengthening International Cooperation in Preventing and Fighting Corruption, the first global anti-corruption declaration named after the city.

ICAC also launched innovative public education initiatives, such as the “1974 Cafe,” a themed space combining historical exhibits with anti-corruption education. Since its December last year opening, the cafe has attracted over 50,000 visitors. 

The commission also revamped its outreach strategy with creative online videos to engage a broader audience.

Chan emphasized ICAC’s commitment to national security, integrating it into staff training through workshops, lectures, and field visits. This ensures officers are well-versed in national security and development strategies, reinforcing their sense of duty and mission.

(Ayra Wang)