***********************************************************
In response to media enquiries on the missing person cases involving the shareholders and staff members of a book store, a Government spokesman said today (January 10):
"The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government attaches great importance to these cases and fully understands the concerns of the community. The Police are now conducting a comprehensive and thorough investigation into the cases. The Police have already sought assistance from relevant Mainland authorities and will urge for their prompt response.
"The rule of law is the cornerstone of our society and everyone should abide by the law. Under Hong Kong laws, law enforcement officers of other jurisdictions do not have the authority to take law enforcement actions if they are in Hong Kong, and they must abide by the laws of Hong Kong. If law enforcement officers of other jurisdictions take law enforcement actions in Hong Kong, they will contravene Hong Kong laws.
"With the Police still actively conducting investigation into these cases, we should not make speculation without a full grasp of the facts.
"Since the return to the Motherland, the HKSAR Government has all along been dealing with matters relating to the HKSAR strictly in accordance with the principle of 'one country, two systems' and the Basic Law.
"The HKSAR Government is firmly committed to protecting the freedom of expression and freedom of publication, which are fundamental rights guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance."
Ends/Sunday, January 10, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:16
NNNN