Police chief vows no more prisoner escapes after third incident in two months

Commissioner of Police Joe Chow Yat-ming on Saturday pledged to prevent further prisoner escapes following the third incident in two months, announcing investigations into possible human errors and exploration of new security technologies.

Chow addressed the media this morning regarding the latest escape at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Yau Ma Tei. 

The suspect, arrested in Tsuen Wan on December 17 for three counts of robbery and theft, complained of ill health and claimed to have cancer. 

He was unable to attend court yesterday afternoon and was escorted to hospital for treatment. After completing an X-ray, he managed to flee custody.

Chow noted that three prisoner escapes have occurred in the past two months. 

The force follows internal guidelines and is investigating potential human error, with possible disciplinary inquiries or actions to follow. 

He emphasized tightening security to prevent recurrences and exploring suitable technologies to enhance escort procedures.