In response to media enquiries about the multiple accusations made by the Hon Tanya Chan at the Human Rights Council of United Nations yesterday (September 16), regarding Police's law enforcement operations since June, a Police spokesperson replied as follows:

     Police express deep regret about Ms Chan's accusations. Since June, a series of protests in Hong Kong have been increasingly tense with an escalation of violence. In various districts, protestors committed extensive destructive acts such as hurling petrol bombs, setting fires and paralysing traffic. In face of the lawless and illegal acts of the protestors, Police always exercise a high level of restraint and endeavour to restore public order and to protect the safety of the general public.

     The spokesperson said that there are stringent Police guidelines for the use of force, and the force to be used by the Police shall be the minimum force necessary for achieving a lawful purpose. Police officers shall, before using force and when circumstances permit, give warning of their intention to use force, and the persons involved shall be given every opportunity, whenever practicable, to obey police orders. The use of force shall cease once the purpose of which has been achieved.

     The spokesperson said, "Ms Chan mentioned the rights of detainees and Police procedures of custodial searches. We must emphasise that we always respect detainees’ rights and will arrange for the detainees to communicate with relatives and lawyers as soon as possible, given that there is no unreasonable delay or hindrance to the investigation or administration of justice. Also, Police will not obstruct any person from receiving medical treatment during investigation in a hospital or any operation. We also respect patients' privacy and any right a person should be entitled to. As for a body search, Police have existing guidelines and procedures. We will consider conducting a body search requiring the removal of clothing only with strong justifications and will arrange an officer of the same sex of the subject to conduct the search."

     "As for Ms Chan's accusation about detainees being harassed and humiliated by Police, we have clarified repeatedly that we have not received any formal reports or complaints. We take such groundless accusations very seriously and doubt the source of information. Police appeal to anyone who has concrete evidence to come forward to make a report so that Police can follow up and investigate. Ms Chan also accused Police officers of shooting bean bag rounds at a female, causing blindness in one of her eyes. Police seriously point out that this case is still under investigation and a judicial process. Before there is any investigation finding, no one should make any reckless conclusion."

Ends/Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Issued at HKT 0:57

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