Deputy Commissioner of Police encourages graduates to jointly safeguard Hong Kong citizens (with photos)

     The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Yip Wan-lung, inspected the passing-out parade of 34 probationary inspectors and 187 recruit police constables at the Hong Kong Police College today (December 20), and witnessed them joining the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) to shoulder the noble mission of safeguarding Hong Kong and protecting citizens.
      
     In his address, Mr Yip said that upon officially taking up frontline duties, graduates must bear in mind that they are not merely law enforcers, but also guardians ensuring a peaceful and safe living environment for the citizens. He hoped they would embody the professional spirit of “going the extra mile” and “thinking more carefully and deeply”.
      
     He highlighted that, in response to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po last month, various government units worked in concert to provide comprehensive support to affected victims throughout rescue and recovery efforts. The HKPF also mobilised a significant number of officers to assist in rescue operation and follow-up relief work, and conduct investigation.
      
     He said police officers tried to promptly ascertain the status of missing persons for the distressed families, sparing them enduring regret. Professional investigation has been initiated with a view to holding those responsible accountable and upholding justice. Officers endured psychological stress in the search for bodies at the fire scene. They also maintained order to facilitate citizens who wished to pay their respects, while remaining vigilant against a small minority of ill-intentioned individuals seeking to exploit the disaster to sow discord, divide society, or even disrupt emergency recovery efforts. He described these police tasks as profoundly meaningful yet immensely challenging.
      
     He pointed out that, by staying united and steadfast in carrying out their duties, Force members completed a large-scale search operation, which was originally expected to take several weeks, in approximately one week. This once again demonstrated the HKPF’s spirit of “rising to the challenges and emerging even stronger”.
      
     Mr Yip concluded that policing has always been a demanding profession, marked by unforeseeable challenges, weighty responsibilities and a long journey ahead. He urged the graduates to stay committed to their original aspiration and to uphold the spirit of “rising to the challenges and emerging even stronger” when facing future challenges. He emphasised that it should serve as the driving force inspiring them to shoulder their mission with dedication, to strive forward with renewed vigour, and to pursue excellence.

Ends/Saturday, December 20, 2025

Issued at HKT 13:32

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