Three key priorities of new top cop

Ayra Wang

Hong Kong's newly appointed Police Commissioner Joe Chow Yat-ming has identified national security education, technology-driven law enforcement and internal team cohesion as three key priorities, vowing to maintain the city's status as one of the world's safest metropolises.

Chow, who was appointed on April 2, said in an interview that safeguarding national security extends beyond law enforcement.

"Many citizens still lack a thorough understanding of national security concepts," he said. "We aim to cultivate a sense of collective responsibility. National security concerns everyone."

Chow drew parallels between reporting crimes and identifying threats: "Just as citizens would report to police when witnessing illegal acts on the street, we hope citizens will proactively report activities endangering national security."

He added that the Police Museum will host an open day on Sunday, ahead of National Security Education Day on April 15, to promote public awareness.

Chow also acknowledged persistent national security risks despite surface calm, dismissing criticisms of Hong Kong's security legislation as unfounded.

"Many Western nations maintain comparable or stricter national security laws," he noted. "Protecting our home shouldn't be controversial. It's like questioning why we need doors and windows in our houses."

Chow highlighted successful trials of AI-powered crowd-management systems during recent Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournaments at Kai Tak Sports Park, including the "Easy Leave" platform used by 45,000 attendees.

He said future initiatives may incorporate drones and robotics to optimize resource allocation.

Chow said scams constituted 47 percent of total crimes last year and about 44 percent in the first two months this year. He likened anti-fraud efforts to vaccination, emphasizing prevention through tools like the "Scameter" fraud detection platform.

He expressed concerns over abuse cases involving the emerging drug "space oil." He added there have been 120 related cases with 127 arrests since its February 14 classification as a dangerous drug.

Chow said 37 detainees were youths, including 16 students.

He warned: "What seems harmless initially could cause lifelong damage."

Addressing public perception, Chow pledged to maintain professionalism and transparency while enhancing community engagement.

When asked whether he will be a "hawk" or "dove" in policing - common political terms for aggressive versus non-aggressive stances - Chow, a former biology student said: "Both birds are fine creatures. What matters is our work, not labels."

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com